In the final episode of our Power of Home 3-part podcast series, we explore the untold stories of school integration in Caruthersville, Missouri. Trailblazer Brenda Cooke Hundley, who integrated Caruthersville High School in 1964, is joined by Willie Will Campbell Jr., a 2025 graduate of the same school, for a powerful cross-generational conversation. Guiding the dialogue is Dr. Gerceida Jones, one of threeBlack children chosen to integrate the white elementary school at the time Brenda was breaking barriers at the high school.
This episode blends personal history, civil rights reflection, and modern perspective, offering listeners an eye-opening discussion on how education, resilience, and community shape lives across generations.
About Brenda Cooke Hundley
Integrated Caruthersville High School in 1964
Earned a bachelors in European History from Wichita State University
30+ year career as a property manager in New York City
Longtime docent and interpreter of slavery in Northern colonies at Philipsburg Manor, Philipse Manor Hall, and the American Museum of Natural History
Retired in 2024; continues museum interpretation work in New York
About Dr. Gerceida Jones
Born and raised in Caruthersville, MO
Selected as one of three Black children to integrate the white elementary school
Graduated from Caruthersville High School in 1973
Earned a bachelors degree in Engineering from the University of Michigan, becoming the first African American to concentrate in Physical Oceanography
Holds both a Masters and a Doctorate in Fluid Dynamics from New York University
Currently teaches Astronomy at NYU and resides in Queens, NY
About Willie Will Campbell Jr.
2025 graduate of Caruthersville High School
Passionate about podcasting and film
Plans to attend Jackson State University (Mississippi) to pursue a bachelors in Journalism and Film Studies
Join the Conversation
Do you have a similar story of school integration, resilience, or community history? Share it with us on our website: Women of the Word.
Or email us at wordconsultingllc@gmail.com.
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Catch Up on the Series
Episode 1 Growing Up Bootheel: Eight Stories of Strength
Watch here
Episode 2 Faith in the Bootheel: Segregation, Survival, and Strength
Watch here
