Janice Ross, BA

Janice T. Ross is a retired school teacher who dedicated over three decades of her life to shaping young minds in the Chicago Public Schools, particularly in the historically significant Cabrini-Green neighborhood. Known for her unwavering commitment to early childhood education, Janice taught at Sojourner Truth Elementary School, where she created a nurturing and stimulating environment for her students. Cabrini-Green, once a symbol of urban struggle, was a vibrant community filled with potential, and Janice played a pivotal role in uplifting her students through innovative teaching methods and a genuine passion for education. Her classroom was a place of hope and inspiration, where children learned not just academics, but also the value of resilience and community.

Janice’s impact extended beyond the classroom, as she inspired her son, Kevin Ross, to establish a partnership with Morehouse College that culminated in the creation of a Weekend of Empowerment program. This initiative provided students from Sojourner Truth Elementary School with invaluable exposure to higher education by allowing them to visit Morehouse and connect with college mentors. Through her dedication and vision, Janice not only transformed the lives of her students but also contributed to building pathways for future generations, embodying the spirit of empowerment and education that she so fervently championed throughout her career.