Longview Remembers Doris McQueen: A Legacy of Community Investment and the Future of Local Leadership
The recent passing of Doris McQueen, a pillar of the Longview, Texas community and a dedicated servant of the Longview ISD, prompts a reflection on the enduring power of local investment and the evolving landscape of community leadership. McQueen’s life, marked by decades of service to education, finance, and civic organizations, offers valuable insights into trends shaping how communities thrive – and how they’ll need to adapt in the years to come.
The Enduring Impact of Naming Rights & School-Community Ties
The naming of Doris McQueen Primary School in 1987 wasn’t merely a symbolic gesture. It represented a growing trend of recognizing individuals deeply invested in local education. This practice, seen across the country – from the numerous schools named after local veterans to those honoring prominent educators – fosters a sense of pride and connection. However, the trend is evolving.
Increasingly, schools are also being named after corporations or foundations that provide significant financial support. A 2023 report by the National School Boards Association [External Link – NSBA] highlighted a 15% increase in corporate-sponsored naming rights over the past decade. While this provides crucial funding, it also raises questions about the balance between honoring individuals and securing financial stability. Longview’s decision to honor McQueen demonstrates a commitment to recognizing grassroots dedication, a value that remains vital.
Pro Tip: Communities considering naming rights should establish clear guidelines prioritizing local contributions and educational impact alongside financial considerations.
The Rise of Women in Leadership: From Zonta to Boardrooms
Doris McQueen’s involvement with organizations like the Zonta Club of Longview and the American Businesswomen’s Association (ABWA) speaks to a historical shift in women’s roles in leadership. Her recognition as ABWA Businesswoman of the Year and Zonta Woman of Achievement were significant milestones in an era when women faced considerable barriers in professional life.
Today, while progress has been made, gender parity in leadership remains a challenge. According to a 2024 study by LeanIn.Org and McKinsey [External Link – LeanIn.Org], women are still underrepresented in senior management positions. However, there’s a growing emphasis on mentorship programs and inclusive leadership initiatives, mirroring the supportive networks McQueen likely benefited from and contributed to. The focus is shifting from simply *having* women in leadership to ensuring they have the support and resources to *thrive*.
The Evolving Role of Credit Unions and Community Finance
Miss McQueen’s charter membership on the East Texas Professional Credit Union Board of Directors underscores the historical importance of credit unions in providing financial services to local communities. Originally established to serve underserved populations, credit unions have evolved into significant players in the financial landscape.
However, they now face competition from fintech companies and online lenders. A recent report by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) [External Link – NCUA] shows a growing trend of credit unions investing in technology to remain competitive and offer digital banking services. The challenge lies in balancing innovation with the core mission of community-focused financial support.
Did you know? Credit unions are not-for-profit cooperatives, meaning they return profits to their members in the form of lower fees and better rates.
The Power of Sustained Civic Engagement
Doris McQueen’s decades-long involvement in numerous organizations – from the United Way to Rotary – exemplifies the power of sustained civic engagement. This commitment wasn’t a fleeting trend; it was a lifelong dedication. However, maintaining this level of engagement is becoming increasingly difficult.
Volunteer rates have declined in recent years, particularly among younger generations. A study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics [External Link – BLS] shows a decrease in volunteer participation since the pandemic. Organizations are now focusing on creating more flexible volunteer opportunities and leveraging technology to connect with potential volunteers. The key is to make civic engagement accessible and relevant to diverse populations.
FAQ: Doris McQueen’s Legacy and Community Involvement
- What was Doris McQueen known for? She was known for her decades of service to the Longview ISD, her community involvement in numerous organizations, and her dedication to education and financial stability.
- Why was Doris McQueen Primary School named after her? The school was named in her honor in 1987 to recognize her significant contributions to the Longview ISD.
- What organizations was Doris McQueen involved with? She was a charter member of the East Texas Professional Credit Union Board of Directors, Zonta Club of Longview, Greater East Texas United Way, and several other civic organizations.
- How can I support the Longview ISD? Memorial contributions can be made to the Longview ISD Foundation.
Reader Question: “How can we encourage more young people to get involved in local organizations?” We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
To learn more about local initiatives and community involvement opportunities in Longview, visit the City of Longview website [External Link – City of Longview]. Explore other articles on our site about local education and community leadership for further insights.
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