City of Huntsville, AL
09/20/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/20/2024 09:49
In his own words: Kenny Anderson reflects on his past, present and future
There are few people in Huntsville who don't know the name Kenny Anderson.
Originally from New York, Anderson is renowned for his vibrant spirit and friendly demeanor. He is the type of person who often wears a smile while speaking, especially when discussing topics he feels passionate about.
Since 2013, he has served as the City of Huntsville's Director of the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, formerly known as Multicultural Affairs. One of his signature contributions is the annual Jazz in the Park-Huntsville series, held each Sunday in September at Big Spring Park.
Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Director Kenny Anderson speaks to a reporter at The Orion Amphitheater during the 2022 lineup announcement of Jazz in the Park-Huntsville. The annual concert series, which brought some of the top smooth jazz artists to Big Spring Park, is attended by thousands of music lovers each year.
As he approaches retirement from the City, Kenny shows no signs of slowing down. His impressive resume reflects his deep commitment to community service. He has previously chaired the United Way of Madison County and the Interfaith Mission Service's Racial Harmony Coalition, and he served on the City of Huntsville's Human Relations Commission.
A dedicated community bridge-builder, Kenny has also written as a community columnist for the Huntsville Times and has received numerous awards for his nearly 30 years of service. His professional affiliations include the National Board of Certified Counselors, 100 Black Men-Greater Huntsville Chapter and the American Psychological Association. Currently, he serves on the boards of several organizations, such as Phoenix, Partnership for a Drug Free Community and Habitat for Humanity, continuing his mission to support and uplift the Huntsville community.
Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Director Kenny Anderson announces the creation of the Civic Engagement Academy in 2022.
Despite his busy schedule, he recently took time to take stock of his career and offer some thoughts on his beginnings in Huntsville, his time as ODEI Director and what's next.
What brought you to Alabama?
I attended Oakwood College, now Oakwood University, after hearing positive feedback from friends who had attended. Their enthusiasm encouraged me to give it a try.
What were your first impressions of Huntsville?
Huntsville struck me as a beautiful, quiet city, a stark contrast to the constant noise and construction in New York. I appreciated the laid-back atmosphere, surrounded by mountains, lakes and streams, which reminded me of my summers in upstate New York.
When did you move to Huntsville?
I moved here in 1975.
You've witnessed significant changes in the city since then.
Absolutely! I've seen Huntsville grow and evolve over the years. It's been a fascinating journey.
As a Manhattan native, what were your perceptions of Alabama?
I didn't have negative preconceptions. While I understood Alabama's historical struggles with civil rights and social justice, I recognized it as the cradle of the civil rights movement. The work of figures like Dr. King and the Montgomery Bus Boycott highlighted the state's significance. Growing up in New York, I was aware of prejudice and discrimination in various neighborhoods, so I didn't see Alabama as an entirely different experience.
When did you start working for the City?
I was appointed in January 2013 and officially started in April, as I needed to complete my role as Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences at Calhoun Community College first.
Did former Multicultural Affairs Director Brenda Martin offer any guidance during your transition?
Brenda was incredibly supportive. She had confidence in my ability to lead the office and encouraged me to leverage my skills and interests fully. Her belief in me made a significant difference.
Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Director Kenny Anderson, left, shares a laugh with Brenda Martin, host of "Inside Huntsville." Martin was Huntsville's Director of Multicultural Affairs prior to Anderson's appointment in 2013.
Did you have a plan when you began?
My initial focus was to understand the landscape - meeting people and engaging with stakeholders for the first three to six months.
Did you identify any immediate challenges in Huntsville?
Huntsville has always felt progressive, especially considering its diversity and the presence of Redstone Arsenal, NASA and several Fortune 500 companies. These factors create ample opportunities for everyone.
What stands out as a good day in your role?
One highlight was launching the Civic Engagement Academy after years of discussions with Frank and Rhonda Broyles. In fall 2022, we received over 100 applications for the inaugural class and accepted 50 individuals eager to learn about city operations and serve as community ambassadors. We're now seeing nearly 200 applications for upcoming sessions, which is very rewarding.
Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Director Kenny Anderson, right, recognizes Andrea Merritt, a participant in the Spring 2023 cohort of the Civic Engagement Academy (CEA). The CEA was one of several initiatives that began during Anderson's tenure as ODEI Director.
What's next for you?
When people ask about my retirement plans, I say, "Whatever I want to do!" I'll continue consulting, which I've done since 1995, and I aim to finish writing my first book. My wife and I are also looking forward to gardening and traveling.
What do you want people to remember about you?
That I served. Period.
I don't need accolades or recognition. Fifty years from now, people won't remember Kenny Anderson. What matters to me are the three endowed academic scholarships I've established: the Jack and Annie Anderson Second Chance Scholarship at Calhoun, the 212 Community Service Scholarship at Oakwood, and the Earnestine Fletcher Tibbs Memorial Scholarship at Alabama A&M University. Though students may not know me, they will recognize the names of these scholarships. I plan to continue growing these scholarships in retirement through fundraising efforts.
What advice would you give to your successor?
I'd advise them to listen and be genuinely present. Building relationships is crucial - helping people feel valued and ensuring they know their voices matter.
We need to continue to proactively engage in positive and productive conversations about what diversity, equity and inclusion really means. I think a lot of what this office does helps people see Huntsville is committed to those values.
I would tell the next director to continue to find ways to ensure people stay connected to the community; to make sure people feel represented. People need to feel valued when they come here. That's a big part of what quality of life is all about.