Great Dr. Alzo J. Reddick Sr.
Bunche Manor-Hollando - Dr. Alzo J. Reddick Sr.’s life reads like an odyssey of fortitude and an unwavering dedication to education and community upliftment. Born in Bartow, Florida, his journey began amid challenges that would shape his commitment to making a difference. A resident in The Communities of West Lakes in Orlando, Florida since 1977, and the place where he met his wife at Jones High School, Dr. Reddick has memories growing up in "Black Orlando" that reflect his humble beginnings and a legacy that transcends his origins. Moving to Orlando in 1944, a first grader at the time, Dr. Reddick became a protagonist in the struggle against discrimination and academic bias. In an interview reflecting on his life, he vividly recounted how his precociousness in reading as a boy led to admiration and adversity. His ability to read set him apart from his peers and made him a target for ridicule and physical intimidation.
Education became his beacon. A young Alzo collected and devoured books curated by Mrs. Vivian Jackson, the first Black librarian in Orange County. Her influence was pivotal, igniting a lifelong passion for learning and a voracious appetite for knowledge.
He excelled in many subjects but found math his Achilles' heel. Yet, his resolve never wavered. Football became both a passion and a gateway to opportunities. He played for Jones High School and later attended Paul Quinn College in Texas on a football scholarship. Eventually, he transitioned to an academic scholarship, affirming his belief in the power of education. He would excel in and find a passion for history and become a well-respected scholar, educator, and legislator. Having earned his bachelor’s degree in history, a master’s degree in education from Florida A&M University, and a doctor of education degree from Nova University, Dr. Reddick's journey, shaped by the transformative power of education and fueled by unwavering determination, stands as a testament to the impact of dedicated mentors and the resilience of the human spirit.
An assignment that would further propel his journey, Dr. Reddick served in the 2nd Infantry Division as a medic. There “I was a proper American” Reddick says. “I had to get in front of 200 men and talk to them about everything from venereal disease to counseling them about their wounds”. Upon returning to Orlando, he acquired a position with Orange County Public Schools as a history teacher. Per Dr. Reddick, he was assigned to "Phillis Wheatley, which was statistically the worst school in Orange County," then during segregation to "Winter Park High School, the best school in the county" and subsequently, predominantly white. The first Black man to teach at the school, Dr. Reddick's knowledge was challenged by his colleagues during this tumultuous time of segregation. From there, he became an assistant dean and adjunct professor at Rollins College. His next journey would take him to the University of Central Florida, where he founded the Defense in Transition (DTS) and Soldiers to Scholars (STS) programs. Simultaneously, he served as a representative in the House of Representatives of the U.S. state of Florida. While serving for 18 years, he accomplished significant legislative milestones. Notably, he was pivotal in amending the Florida Constitution, allowing Black commissioners to be elected in single-member districts.
Dr. Alzo Reddick was a tireless advocate for progress, equality, and education throughout his life. He pursued initiatives like the Juneteenth legislation and visited close custody institutions to engage with incarcerated individuals. He finds joy in witnessing milestones for the Black community. His life's work inspires future generations, urging them to find their talents and contribute to a more equitable and educated society.
