“An homage to legacy and a bridge to the future”

The great-granddaughter of a Reconstruction Era Alabama State Senator. The granddaughter of entrepreneurs who owned Dean Drug Store on Monroe Street. The daughter of a Tuskegee Airman - pharmacist - business owner - organizer. A student and activist of the Civil Rights Movement under the tutelage of Dr. Martin Luther and Mrs. Coretta Scott King; Rosa Parks; John Lewis and the Freedom Riders; Dr. Ralph D. Abernathy; Diane Nash and James “Jim” Farmer, to name a few. 

Dr. Valda Harris Montgomery embodies and emanates this city’s multi-generational history - a spirit of determination, excellence, pride and joy. Yet, it was the observation of her humility, indomitable strength, elegance and abiding grace as she shared her personal story first-hand with Hopare that ultimate inspired him to select Dr. Montgomery as his muse. ​