Uncrowned Community Builders

Ms. Yvonne L. Morrell was born August 10, 1936 in the city of Buffalo to the late Mr. Alien and Mrs. Nellie Morrell. Ms. Morrell was born into a large loving family including nine brothers and sisters. Ms. Morrell believed that family, faith, education and service were the pillars to having a meaningful life.

Ms. Morrell was a graduate of East High School. She was a single parent of six children, Stephanie, Jacqueline, Angela, Carolyn, Shareen and James. A life long member of St. Ann's Roman Catholic Church, she served on several committees. She sang in the Adult Choir, directed the Youth Choir, served as lecture, commentator and on Parish Council. Leaning on her faith and determination Ms. Morrell provided a better life for her children when she earned a Bachelor's and two Master's Degrees from the University at Buffalo and Buffalo State College in Education and Child Psychology, shortly thereafter she began her teaching career.

Ms. Morrell was a grammar school teacher in the Buffalo Public School system for over thirty-five years, until her retirement in 2004. In her earlier teaching career she taught the G.E.D. and Literacy programs to inmates at the Attica Correctional Facility. Ms. Morrell was a leading member of the parental committee which established the Follow Through School. Dedicated to her community, Ms. Morrell was a member of the Junior League and tutored students in need before and after school. She believed all things where possible with an education and set forth to provide educational opportunities to all.

Ms. Yvonne Morrell was affectionately called "Nana" by family and friends and alike. She was a proud African-American woman who contributed to her church, family, community and education. Her accomplishments encouraged us to achieve the very best and prove success is in reach. Ms. Morrell was surrounded by family and friends when she was peacefully called home on January 4, 2007. She leaves behind a legacy of service to her community, faith and family for generations to come.

2nd Place, Grades 7-9
De-Jon T. Brice
Grade 7, Frank A. Sedita Academy