How old are you? 77 /Senior%20of%20the%20Month/Louella%20Dudley.jpg "Picture of Louella Dudley")
Where were you born? I was born in New York City and lived in the Clinton Hills/Fort Green section of Brooklyn.
When did you move to Montclair? I moved to Montclair three years ago. My daughters were concerned about me living so far away from them one lived in Florida and the other lived in Montclair. I decided to move to Montclair. It’s very similar to Clinton Hills/Fort Green. They are both diversified communities, politically active, culturally stimulating with arts, music, and theatre, and have a wide selection of restaurants.
Are you currently employed? If so, doing what? If you had a career, what was it? I am currently retired. I obtained a Master’s Degree in education from Fordham University and my Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing from Long Island University. I was the Director and/or Administrator of various health-related programs located in hospitals e.g. Interfaith Medical Center, Baruch College, Community-based Alcoholism Treatment Centers and New York City Department of Health. I developed, implemented, coordinated, and supervised health service delivery.
How have you been engaged in the community? I am a member of the Senior Citizens Advisory Committee (SCAC), a Founding Board Member of Aging in Montclair (AIM), member of Montclair Community Farms Coalition, and a member of Montclair Arts Museum (MAM). I am also a member of the AARP, and lastly, I am a member of the Newark Museum. Prior to moving to Montclair I was a Founding Member of the National Black Alcoholism Council, Founding Chairperson of the New York State Chapter of the National Black Alcoholism Council, Co-Chair of the New York City Council on Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Alcoholism Services, Treasurer of the Board for Concord Home Care Services for the Elderly, a member of Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, a member of WBGO Jazz 88 and a member of American Nurses Association.
What are some of the most important lessons you feel you have learned throughout your life? The most important lesson learned throughout my life is to keep God in the Center of my Life and all else will follow according to God's plan. Also, when challenges come - and they will - remain prayerful, have patience, be persistent, and persevere, and you will overcome the hurdles.
What are your plans for future? How does Montclair fit into these plans? I intend to remain in Montclair and stay active in the community as long as I can. Montclair is a lovely town to live in and has a lot to offer. I would like to continue to be a part of assisting in creating additional services for Senior Citizens.