“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” —Nelson Mandela
ON FEBRUARY 14, 2026 WE RECOGNIZE:
REVEREND ALVIN EDWARDS
Dr. Alvin Edwards is a native of Joliet Il and has been the pastor of Mt. Zion First African Baptist Church for 44 years.
His accolades include
- Chair of the Charlottesville School Board
- Mayor of the City of Charlottesville
- General Secretary of the National Baptist Convention
- Board member and Advisor to Boy Scouts of America
- President of African American Pastoral Council
- President of the Charlottesville Clergy Collective.
His life motto is:
If I Can Help Somebody, Then My Living Will Not Be in Vain