Ramona Edelin

Ramona Hoage Edelin (September 4, 1945 – February 19, 2024) was an American academic, activist and consultant. Edelin is credited with introducing the term "African American" into the general vernacular. She has been named one of the most influential Black Americans by Ebony. She later served as executive director of the DC Association of Charter Schools.

Early life and education

Ramona Hoage was born on September 4, 1945, in Los Angeles, California, to George Hoage and Annette Lewis Hoage Phinazee. She was an only child. Her mother was the first woman to earn a PhD in library science from Columbia University, and encouraged Ramona to pursue an academic career. Her family then moved to Stockbridge, Massachusetts where Edelin attended Stockbridge High School. She graduated in 1963. Kenneth needed to complete a tour of military service in England and Ramona moved there to study as well. She created the M. Carl Holman Leadership Development Institute and the Executive Leadership Program and created landmark education programs for African American children.