The City of Daytona Beach will host a commemorative celebration honoring the 150th birthday of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, one of the community’s most beloved and influential figures. The public is invited to attend the free event at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at the bronze statue of Dr. Bethune in the Riverfront Esplanade, located at the corner of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard and Beach Street.
Born on July 10, 1875, Dr. Bethune rose to become an internationally acclaimed educator, civil rights leader, advisor to U.S. presidents and founder of what is now Bethune-Cookman University. Her legacy continues to inspire generations and remains deeply rooted in Daytona Beach, her longtime home until her passing in 1955.
The city’s birthday tribute will include special remarks and reflections by Bethune-Cookman University President Dr. Albert Mosley, Mayor Derrick L. Henry and Nancy Lohman, community philanthropist and organizer of the effort to bring the bronze statue to the Riverfront Esplanade. Daytona Beach City Commissioner Paula R. Reed, a proud graduate of Bethune-Cookman, will serve as the event’s emcee.
“This celebration is more than just a birthday tribute—it’s an opportunity for us to reflect on the extraordinary life and legacy of Dr. Bethune,” said Mayor Henry. “Her vision for education, equality and empowerment has left an indelible mark not only on our city but on the entire nation.”
The life-size bronze statue was unveiled in the Riverfront Esplanade in August 2022. It is a replica of the historic statue representing Florida in the U.S. Capitol’s National Statuary Hall, making Dr. Bethune the first African American to be honored.
In the event of inclement weather, the celebration will move indoors to the Commission Chambers at Daytona Beach City Hall, 301 S. Ridgewood Ave.