As a struggling mother in Washington, DC, Virginia Walden Ford worried that her son was falling through the cracks of a school system that wasn't focused on the best interests of children. Shocked that so many students were forced to attend subpar schools simply because they lived in the "wrong" ZIP codes, Virginia formed a grassroots organization and began her fight for school choice. Her journey inspired the major motion picture Miss Virginia, starring Uzo Aduba (as Virginia), Matthew Modine, Amirah Vann, Vanessa Williams, and Niles Fitch. On November 9, we will screen the film, followed by a discussion with Virginia about her experiences.

A native of Little Rock, Arkansas and the daughter of two public school educators, Virginia and her twin sister, Harrietta, were among the first 130 students chosen to desegregate Little Rock’s high schools in the mid-1960s.

Today, Virginia is one of America’s leading advocates for parent empowerment. As a student, a mother, an advocate, and a grandmother, Virginia has spent her lifetime fighting to create new educational opportunities for children and families.
Fueled by her passion for educational opportunity, Virginia Walden Ford has inspired families, filmmakers, and lawmakers to make positive educational changes that benefit all American children.

After winning several awards for her advocacy efforts, Virginia shared her advice and experiences in her book, Voices, Choices, and Second Chances. Her second book, School Choice: A Legacy to Keep was published in 2019.

This event is presented by the Center for Free Enterprise, as part of the Menard Family Lecture Series. Please note: This event will be held in Floyd Theatre, in the Student Activities Center. It is free and open to all. Refreshments will be served.