AFT-Maryland Statement on the Passing of Dr. Lillian Lowery

News of Dr. Lillian Lowery’s passing has saddened our state federation deeply. We had the utmost respect for her as a tireless fighter for students across the state of Maryland. Dr. Lowery’s historic term as the first African-American to head the Maryland State Department of Education was monumental for young Black women who aspired for careers in educational administration. She served at every level of education including as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, principal, and superintendent before leading education departments in Delaware and Maryland.

AFT-Maryland President Kenya Campbell added, “Dr. Lowery was a pioneer for Black women in education like myself. She was often one of the few women of color in important policy discussions that affected children from diverse and wide-ranging communities. Her confident and steadying leadership was necessary as the state implemented national common-core standards. She will truly be missed.”

Dr. Lowery’s contributions to Maryland are not limited to historic representation nor her various titles, although they are important parts of her legacy. She was a partner in education working with our state federation on key issues that were integral to the education of students in Baltimore city and across the state. 

Our deepest sympathies go out to her family, friends, and colleagues who are mourning the loss of one of the most impactful women in Maryland’s history. 

2022-04-14