What: Early Learning Center is renamed for African American business pioneer
When: Friday, March 26, 2021
2:30 p.m.
Where: 1015 Fresno St. (93706)
The Fresno Unified Board of Education voted unanimously Oct. 21 to rename the Early Learning Center for LaVera Ethridge-Williams. District and community leaders will gather with family members of Mrs. Ethridge-Williams to officially unveil the new sign for the center.
Mrs. Ethridge-Williams, who passed away Dec. 21, was a longtime childcare center owner in Fresno. She was also known for her contributions to education and community service. In 1968, Mrs. Ethridge-Williams became the first African American woman to own and open a childcare center in West Fresno. La Vera’s Educational Center was the first in a chain of family owned and operated centers throughout Fresno. The center at Fresno and A streets now owned by Fresno Unified was originally one of Ethridge-Williams’ centers.
“Mrs. Ethridge-Williams was a business trailblazer in our community, and a much-loved advocate for children and for her community. We are pleased to recognize her legacy by renaming the Early Learning Center in her honor,” said Superintendent Bob Nelson.