Rep. Darryl Owens Honors 2008 Mrs. Kentucky Ra'Tonya Willis-Friedman On House Floor
First African American To Win Title

"I am very proud to have Ra'Tonya Willis-Friedman with us here today and all of Kentucky should share in that pride," said Rep. Owens on the House Floor. "She is a highly accomplished woman who values public service and education as a way to better herself and her community."

Mrs. Willis-Friedman, a lifelong resident of Louisville and a graduate of Male High School, holds a bachelor of science degree from the University of Louisville, and a master of arts in teaching and a master of educational administration from Spalding University. She has also completed the Doctoral in Educational Leadership Program at Spalding.

She is a devoted community servant and volunteers for Southeast Christian Mission, Wayside Christian Mission, and Norton's Children's Hospital. She is also involved in TEAM Shawn, named after her deceased brother, which is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping minority children attend Catholic schools.

"Ra'Tonya being the first black woman to be named Mrs. Kentucky is a great accomplishment, but Ra'Tonya is a very accomplished woman," said Rep. Owens who has known her parents Robert and Marita Willis for many years. "Ra'Tonya's platform as Mrs. Kentucky is 'sowing the seeds of service' which underscores the importance of giving back. She believes that by investing in each other, we can all prosper and live better lives."

Mrs. Willis-Friedman said her trip to Frankfort was exciting. "I am honored to be recognized by such an important body. These legislators work hard on the behalf of all Kentuckians and it was humbling that they took time out from the special session to hear my story."

Mrs. Willis-Friedman will represent the Commonwealth of Kentucky in the Mrs. America competition in September. If she wins there, she will compete in Russia in 2009 for the title of Mrs. World.