By Betty J. Glascoe
Howard Peters Rawlings, better known as Pete, began his employment at UMBC in 1969. Norman Van Allan Reeves, Jr., who was fatefully known by all who knew him as Norm, began his employment within the same period. They had a singular vision and established the mission as to how to effectively actualize diversity on the campus and bring about positive transitions for the total UMBC community. In their pursuit, they established and successfully organized the UMBC Black Faculty and Staff Caucus. This organization provided an opportunity to bring together Black employees from throughout the campus to encourage, support, elevate the student population and the Black faculty and staff on the campus, as well as identify transitions in the university community that would require attention and/or action.
In describing Norm, you would often find him in his wheelchair. He had muscular sclerosis (MS) and readily acknowledged what might be described as a physical challenge, but not a disability or a physical handicap, because he could and would challenge anyone at any time and/or whenever required. He never backed down or took a back seat to anyone. He made certain that people understood that his wheelchair should not define their communication with him.
Pete was a tall and imposing figure who often greeted people with a smile, even when he was unhappy with something that they had done. He was a perfectionist, but he made certain not to intimidate, but to encourage honest responses from those individuals that were fortunate enough to work in conjunction with him. His voice had a moderate tone, but his strength was in the depth of his delivery.
Norm and Pete worked together extremely well and had sincere respect for the strengths that each possessed. When looking at the two of them together, many might question the level of their agreement and their pursuit for effectively handling many of the critical issues that were brought before them individually and/or before the Black Caucus. They always presented themselves in a unified manner. The Black Caucus leadership would often make members aware of the critical importance of always doing their best and realizing that their commitment and their performances impact future hiring of other Black employees. It was constantly shared with membership that if there were problems that you perceived were beyond your control, it was significant to bring them to the Black Caucus in order that they might help with the resolution. It was always made clear that everyone must remember that no one was hired to take up space, but to show respect for what they are employed to do and successfully handle the responsibilities of the position.
About both men and their earlier backgrounds
Pete Rawlings was one of 6 children born and raised in Baltimore City to Howard Toussaint Rawlings and Beatrice (Peters) Rawlings in 1937. The Rawlings family was one of the first families chosen to live in the Poe Homes, a recently built and segregated Project for African American families in Baltimore City. Mr. Rawlings began his employment as a department store custodian and later secured employment with the US Postal Service.
During that time, Poe Homes was a wonderful place to live and successfully raise children. Pete’s parents, as did the other parents, encouraged independence and stressed that their children extend themselves with the mission of helping others. The parents were strong proponents of education and made certain that their children understood the significance and how it would determine their futures. A significant percentage of young people from the Poe Homes became college graduates and secured professional positions. However, there were limited opportunities available at that time for African Americans. Many young people chose careers in education.
Norman Reeves was an only child born to Norman Van Allan Reeves, Sr., and Lucy Mason Reeves. His mother was a podiatrist, and his father was a longshoreman. The Reeves family resided in the upscale neighborhood in Baltimore City where many professional African Americans lived. Jobs as longshoreman during that time proved to be great opportunities for many African American males, because the salaries earned made it possible to provide financially well for their families and enable them to have funds to establish a comfortable environment to successfully raise children. Although there were some males who had degrees who worked as longshoremen, it must be noted that many doors at companies were closed to expanding opportunities for African American males. What was most significant is that the visions that families had for their children were the same. Education, extending a hand to help others, working hard to elevate yourself and make family proud were paramount.
Norm made us aware of his family’s historical land wealth. His family once owned the land that the Westview Mall now covers. They sold this massive plot of land to investors/builders. Whether they received the appropriate funding for the true value, we are not aware. However, we were all blown away after hearing this.
Photo courtesy of the History Makers archives
When these two men secured their employment at UMBC, they shared a vison and established a mission to successfully actualize the goals that they had early established and utilized the Black Faculty and Staff Caucus to benefit UMBC and qualified personnel from the African American community. They felt that UMBC was not living up to the original purpose of this new university that was early identified to the State Legislative Body. As a result, Norman Reeves and Howard Pete Rawlings wrote a letter to Chancellor Dr. Albin Owings Kuhn in February 1970, identifying what they considered to be the inequities of UMBC hiring practices. (The letter can be found on the WI website under the Newsletters tab, along with an extended version of this article.) They knew that they were putting their careers and their professional reputations on the line, but they were willing to take the chance and sought to make a difference. They went to department chairs and made them aware that they could help them in their search for African American personnel. They shared that they had numerous resources available to them and they could be the vehicle that was needed. I am not certain how many people they recruited for positions at UMBC, but they were thorough in their recruitment tactics as we noticed an increase in the number of new Caucus members.
In May of 1970, I had just come out of an unhappy marriage with a beautiful infant baby girl and had established our new residence in a lovely apartment. A friend called me to tell me that she and some other friends had given my name to two “top level” employees from UMBC that were seeking responsible, bright, innovative, and academically prepared personnel to apply for positions at the university. She was aware that I was trying to adjust to the transitions that were taking place in my life and realized that this referral might be difficult at this time; however, she knew that I needed to work. After thanking her profusely, I agreed to an interview with Pete Rawlings and Norman Reeves, not knowing what to expect. I immediately began my research on UMBC. Within a few days, after their call, they came to my new home/apartment to check me out, interview me and determine if I met their criteria. They informed me that they had heard impressive things about me from friends, but they would have to determine my preparation/qualifications before they could make the referral for me to be interviewed. I was a nervous wreck, but I tried to remain calm.
I was made aware that the position was for Director of the Career Placement Center and was a department at this time that was temporarily housed under the Counseling Center. They asked many questions that I anticipated and some that I was not prepared for, but I knew that they were essential. They wanted to know about the solidity of my childcare plan and my views on Motherhood; my future goals; my vision for the Center; how I handled stress; how would I learn all that is required to develop an exceptional Center; what kind of planning would be required to meet student and employer needs; how effectively did I respond to young people of all races; etc. I was made aware that this was not a position to take lightly. It required hard work and dedication. Norm appeared to be the one identified to be stern, but I understood. I was given a variety of materials that I needed to study and comprehend how they might be incorporated into the development of the center. Norm said that he had heard that I was an actress. I confirmed and he suggested that I utilize my acting skills because I would need them. As they were leaving, I was exhausted. They informed me that they had done extensive research on this position and learned that if I secured this directorship, I would be the first Black female in the country hired to develop as well as direct a major departmental program from scratch at a predominantly White academic institution. Pete attempted to encourage me and said that I would be surrounded by a dedicated support system. Norm looked at me and smiled and said, “No pressure.” I was a nervous wreck, but it was clear to me that I would have the support of these two giants and the Black Caucus. I was told that they would be meeting with me again and I was given telephone numbers to call if I should have questions or concerns. I had never met men quite like them. They were amazing!
I was made aware that most of the faculty/staff that they sought to recruit to UMBC were taken through the same process and some more extensively than others. It was obvious that the Black Caucus membership had the utmost respect and admiration for these formidable leaders. The Caucus took seriously the initiative to recruit African American students to come to UMBC, once it had been determined and acknowledged in the letter sent to Dr. Kuhn on 2/10/1970, that of the 2,286 students in attendance at UMBC, only 74 identified as African American. Dr. Kuhn responded positively on 2/17/1970 to the concerns identified, indicating that he agreed with their statements and analysis and specified that UMBC would be making significant changes within the university community to make the university more inclusive and diverse. As a result, an officer for the recruitment program became a viable source for diversity; the Affirmative Action Advisory Committee was put in place; and the African American Studies Department became a celebrated inclusion in the academics of UMBC by African American students. What was obvious and constant was the strength, determination, drive, and fearlessness of Howard Pete Rawlings and Norman Van Allan Reeves. They knew that they had made positive changes and they felt better knowing that the university would be moving in the right direction.
What was quite surprising was that this exceptional leadership duo made plans to leave UMBC in 1972. Still utilizing the enormous skills and expertise that they had acquired over the years, they made certain that it was clear to those of us who were still at UMBC that they would be available to assist us when necessary and if needed. They were working in different capacities and making certain that they were helping people in any endeavors. They knew that they had purposes that expanded their visions for Baltimore City and the State of Maryland. In 1979, both Howard Pete Rawlings and Norman Reeves ran for public offices, and both won. Norman was elected to the Baltimore City Council to serve the 5th District, while Pete was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates to serve the 40th legislative district. Both men were fiercely committed to serving the people and gave all that they had. All earlier experiences fueled their drive and delivery. The continued thrust for Delegate Rawlings was education and his reputation among the legislative body was escalating and superseding his presence.
The earlier impressive reputation earned by Howard Pete Rawlings when at UMBC in his co-leadership role of the Black Faculty and Staff Caucus, as well as the respect earned for the tremendous work being done by Delegate Rawlings in the Maryland legislature that impacted education throughout the state, caused Dr. Michael Hooker, the President of UMBC, to seek his assistance in his search for a Vice President in 1990. Delegate Rawlings honored this request and accepted the assignment and went to Coppin State College in Baltimore to tell Dr. Freeman Hrabowski that the students at UMBC needed him. Delegate Rawlings, along with many other leaders in Maryland, was aware of the incredible credentials of Dr. Hrabowski that highlighted him as a superior leader in education. Dr. Hooker and Dr. Hrabowski were an exceptional leadership team. Delegate Rawlings knew that the University needed the multiple skills and talents of Dr. Freeman Hrabowski to lead UMBC into the future when Dr. Hooker, in 1992, took on a leadership role at another university.
The image of UMBC changed dramatically during the tenure of President Hrabowski. The early steps taken by Pete Rawlings and Norm Reeves to enhance diversity were intensified under his leadership. He was able to actualize his dream of recruiting exceptional Black youth for a specialized program in varying academic fields in the sciences that would lead to doctoral education and preparation. He secured funding from Joseph Meyerhoff to start the Meyerhoff Program, which became one of the most successful programs in and outside of the country. This program highlighted diversity at its best and most successful. The best and highest ranked students of color from throughout the country were vying to get accepted into the Meyerhoff Program, because it marked an entrée to many prestigious opportunities. Companies, corporations, and agencies were excited to be invited to UMBC to recruit our students.
Beyond UMBC: Family and public life of the Diversifying Giants
Howard Pete Rawlings was married to the love of his life, Nina Cole. She was a prominent pediatrician and a very brilliant woman who was well loved, respected, and honored in the community and within medical institutions. They were the proud parents of three scholastic achievers who sought excellence in all endeavors. The oldest of the three, Lisa Rawlings, earned her MBA. She is now the Director of Grants and Financial Management, Office of Community Engagement, University of Maryland Baltimore. Her office coordinates the collaboration between adult learners from community-based groups and higher educational institutions in preparation for employment readiness through training for careers. The middle of the three siblings is Wendell Rawlings, who earned a mechanical Engineering Degree. His most recent position title is Senior Business Development Manager, Sustainability, Resiliency & Net-Zero Development with C-PACE. Stepanie Rawlings Blake, the youngest, was a politician and attorney who served as the 50th mayor of Baltimore City from 2010 – 2016. She also served as Secretary of the Democratic National Committee, and as the President of the United Conference of Mayors. Stephanie has recently secured a new position as Executive Director of the National Basketball Player Association Foundation. The entire family is influenced by the earlier directives made by Howard Pete Rawlings that were successfully integrated throughout his career for communal upward mobility. Both he and his wife Nina encouraged development and advancement of their children.
Delegate Howard Peters Rawlings had a remarkable career in the Maryland House of Delegates, serving the 40th legislative district and the people of Maryland with superior honor and dignity from 1979 until 2003. As Chair of the powerful Appropriations Committee, he developed a stellar reputation for honesty and integrity, for detailed knowledge of the state budget, and for his commitment and dedication to the city of Baltimore. He was in the forefront of reforming inner city schools and requiring accountability for lack of academic progress. He co-sponsored legislation that banned racial profiling in Maryland while fighting to prohibit lottery drawings on Sundays. All that he fought to accomplish was to provide better lives for Marylanders and focus on greater accountability of our education system – highlighting teacher performance and student achievement.
One month prior to his death from cancer, the National Association of State Boards of Education (NASBE) named Delegate Rawlings the National Education Policy Leader of the Year. He focused on closing the achievement gap among minority students in demanding resources for results and sought change among so many other achievements in support of education enhancement and advancement of our youth. Two days after his death, the Baltimore Sun published a tribute: “With the death of Howard P. “Pete” Rawlings, Maryland lost an extraordinarily gifted leader and one of the most accomplished politicians of his era – known for both a tight fist and a caring heart.” During the first legislative session after his death, he was awarded the First Citizen Award by the Maryland Senate. The Howard Pete Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore and the Dining Hall at Morgan State University were named in his honor.
Photo courtesy of Maryland State Archives
When Norm successfully ran for and became the Baltimore City Council Member for the 5th District, he had many dreams that he wanted to fulfill for his district. However, health challenges curtailed a successful career as Norman Van Allan Reeves, Jr. died in 1983. Even though Norm’s death was extremely difficult on his family, the most challenging time was evident when their 20-year-old daughter, Traci, a student at Morgan State University, died of complications from asthma in 1990. This unexpected loss was tremendously painful for mother and son. Fortunately, Norman Van Allan Reeves III has remained healthy and recently retired from a management position with United Parcel Service.
This fearless Giant, who had accomplished so much for others and had worked so hard to represent his district, was not able to complete his first term in office. However, Norm left a legacy that will long be remembered. He was an active opponent of the Leakin Park Expressway. He fought to preserve the Leakin and Gwynns Falls Parks, opposing the parkway that would have resulted in the destruction of neighborhoods, businesses, and beautiful parkland. In recognition of his efforts, a trail in Leakin Park was named in his honor the year he died. After Norm’s death, his wife, Iris Reeves, was chosen to complete his term and was reelected to serve for 13 1/2 years.
I am so pleased that the two Diversifying Giants, Howard Pete Rawlings and Norman Van Allen Reeves, Jr., had such an enduring impact on UMBC and beyond. They gave all that they could to make life better for us all. I am doubly proud that they were devoted friends who fulfilled their purposes while here on this earth. May they forever rest in peace.
Betty J Glascoe, hired in 1970 to develop, open, and direct UMBC’s first Career Development and Placement Center. Developed extensive services and programs to encourage company recruitment of UMBC students, collaborate with employing Community and UMBC faculty, staff, administration, graduate professional educational institutions, while enhancing student confidence expanding the exceptional reputation of the institution and directing a remarkable and selfless staff. Retired after 35 wonderful years. Started small company; a stint at the White House from 2009 -2016; playwright for 37 years; Dance and drama teacher on Saturdays; Chief Judge for Howard County Board of Elections; interior decorating, artistic painter and clothing designs. Greatest accomplishment is being a mother and grandmother.