Alicia Kemp

Alicia Kemp Biography

Alicia Kemp is recognized for her multifaceted contributions as an educator, community worker, and actress. Originally from Buffalo, New York, she has gained prominence through her extensive career in education and her involvement in community programs. Alicia is known for her dedication to early childhood education and her longstanding commitment to improving opportunities for African American students within the public school system. Her work as an educator and community leader has left a significant impact, rooted in both her teaching and administrative roles across various institutions.

Childhood

Alicia Kemp was born in 1941 in Buffalo, New York, at her parents' home on Madison Street. She was delivered by a midwife and grew up in a family headed by John and Evelyn Kemp. Alicia attended Buffalo Public Schools during her formative years, experiencing education firsthand as one of the few African American students enrolled in the college preparatory curriculum at Bennett High School. Her childhood in Buffalo provided the foundation for her future pursuits in education and community service.

Education

Alicia pursued her higher education at Buffalo State College, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education and K-8 Common Branch subjects. She continued her academic journey at the University at Buffalo, receiving a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education after being awarded a prestigious Teachers of Teachers of Teachers (TTT) National Fellowship in 1971. Alicia also completed postgraduate certificates in Education in Non-School Settings at Medaille College and pursued administrative training at Canisius College, Georgetown University, and Syracuse University. Her education was marked by a strong emphasis on specialized and administrative skills within education.

Career

Alicia Kemp's career is wide-ranging, primarily focused on education and community service. She has worked as a teacher in Buffalo Public Schools and held roles such as Demonstration Teacher, workshop presenter for the Buffalo Teacher's Federation, and special education placement coordinator. Alicia also served as the Head Start Administrator for Erie County, the principal of St. John Christian Academy, and an instructor at Erie Community College and Canisius College. Apart from education, Alicia was an accomplished actress with the Ira Aldridge Players, earning Actress of the Year in 1961 for her role in "Purlie Victorious." Despite the opportunity to tour with the production, she chose to focus on her passion for education.

Family Life

Details about Alicia Kemp's personal family life, including relationships and children, are not prominently documented publicly. However, she describes herself as a mother and has balanced family responsibilities alongside her professional commitments and community work.

Achievements

Alicia Kemp's notable achievements include her recognition as Actress of the Year in 1961 and the honors she received through her educational career, such as the Teachers of Teachers of Teachers National Fellowship. She authored a Handbook for Day Care Workers and held leadership roles in various educational programs that significantly contributed to early childhood and special education in her community.

Controversies

There are no recorded controversies related to Alicia Kemp within her career or personal life in the available public information, reflecting a professional and community-focused life.

Alicia Kemp Summary

Alicia Kemp is a dedicated educator and community worker whose life has been marked by her commitment to improving educational opportunities and community development. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, her academic and professional accomplishments have influenced generations of students and educators. Known also for her artistic talents as an actress, Alicia chose to dedicate herself primarily to education and service, leaving a meaningful legacy in the Buffalo community and beyond through her various roles in teaching, administration, and advocacy within early childhood education.