“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” —Nelson Mandela

ON FEBRUARY 13, 2026, WE RECOGNIZE:

PEARL RIDLEY EARLY

Pearl Ridley Early is a longtime community activist who has been addressing the injustices faced by Black children and Black professionals in Albemarle County Public Schools since 1993. She has been a strong advocate against discrimination, fighting for equal educational opportunities for Black students and equitable hiring practices for Black professionals. To further this mission, she founded the African American Parents Alliance to raise awareness within the broader community and to continue the ongoing work of advocacy, accountability, and empowerment that remains vital today. She is a champion of activism for equity and civil rights.

Pearl is the Founder and Advisor of the Junior chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers in partnership with Albemarle County Public Schools. Her leadership has established a significant partnership with UVA Engineering Department with a focus on community engagement and research collaboration. She has facilitated annual summer academies for high school students to strengthen their awareness, skills and interest in science, technology, engineering, and math subjects. Her scholars have successfully presented projects, which ranged from microscopes to model cars. A primary focus has been on high quality engagement with Black students to establish and pursue education goals. So many of her scholars have and are considering opportunities in the STEM fields and strengthen their beliefs to open new and wider doors. Pearl is a trailblazer.

“I want their school board to pay more attention to Black students in STEM,” “I want them to realize that they have a place. And they should be at the table.”