Interview, Lawrence Evans

Lawrence Evans (b. 1945) was born in Braceville, Ohio. He graduated from Warren Harding High School and earned a scholarship to attend Howard University, where he studied engineering. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Youngstown State University. In 1970, he enrolled in the Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, earning his master’s degree in Rochester studies, religious studies, and economic development. Evans’ first job in Rochester was as a consultant developing workshops for community agencies and training volunteers. He was active in a variety of community organizations such as the Neighborhood Street Academy, Action for a Better Community, and the First Community Interfaith Institution.

In this interview, Evans discusses his community involvement at the political, educational, and cultural levels. He stresses the importance of building unity and encourages people to learn about and communicate with their civic leaders.