Scott Statement on the Passing of Effie Ashe

NEWPORT NEWS, VA – Congressman Robert C. "Bobby" Scott issued the following statement on the passing of former Newport News School Board Chairwoman Effie Ashe:

"It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of former Newport News School Board Chairwoman Effie Ashe. Effie spent most of her life in service to her community. For 33 years, she served our nation at Fort Eustis working in several civil service positions, and was often one of the few African Americans on base who worked in an office. She was never drawn to the limelight of public office, but her community and the schools and students of Newport News desperately needed her tenacity and straightforwardness. Because of her dedication and involvement in the PTA and other community organizations, I wasn't surprised when Effie was coaxed in to running for the school board from the South District. And I certainly wasn't surprised when she became the first African American woman to serve as School Board Chair. Even after leaving the school board, Effie remained an active participant in the public discourse. The City of Newport News has lost a humble and dedicated public servant. I will greatly miss her counsel and friendship."

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