Dr. Felix Rodney Sloan

Felix's Life Journey: Felix Rodney Sloan was born October 3, 1922 to the union of late Archie H. Sloan and Ida Bruce also preceding him in death, four brothers, Charles Sloan, Frank Sloan, Archie Sloan and John Sloan; one sister, Mary Evans; one son, David Sloan and one daughter, Cynthia Sanders. He attended and graduated from East End High School in Seneca, South Carolina. Felix discovered Christ at an early age at the Tabernacle Baptist Church in Seneca, South Carolina. In 1957, Felix met and married his love, Nellie Irene Goings. A husband, father of three children, community leader, entrepreneur, and devoted lover of people exemplifies the many qualities and attributes of Felix Rodney Sloan during his 32 plus years of outstanding and distinguished public service. The prophecy of his life is best described in the profound statements, "Count your Blessings" and "How do we know where we are going if we don't know from whence we came?" The second youngest of six children, Felix grew up in Seneca, South Carolina. Guided and directed by the encouragement, love and care of family, he had a dream even at this early age. Experiencing the struggles and plight of fellow blacks less fortunate than himself, he decided to devote his life to pursuing a career in the helping profession. Reaching this goal was not easy. Through the encouragement and limited financial assistance of family, he enrolled as a pre-medical student at South Carolina State College in Orangeburg, South Carolina. His brief stay at South Carolina State College was interrupted, due to World War II, where he served honorably for three years. Upon the completion of service in the Armed Forces, he moved to Detroit and continued his pursuit of a medical degree at Wayne State University. Financial responsibilities forced him to drop out of school and seek employment in an automobile factory. Although the job in the factory satisfied his financial needs, his desire and determination to pursue a career in the helping profession caused him to move in the direction of this goal. To this end, Felix obtained employment with the City of Detroit, Brewster Douglas Housing Project, as a Public Housing Aide. The turning point in his life occurred during his tenure at the Brewster-Douglas Housing Project. He met his lovely wife, Irene, who was a teacher in the Detroit Public Schools. Listening, discussing and observing her dedication and commitment to the welfare of youth prompted him to become obsessed with the teaching profession. He earned a teaching certificate in elementary education at Wayne State University. His experiences as a Mathematics Teacher at Chandler Elementary School represent one of the most rewarding experiences of his life. Many of the students he taught are now teachers, lawyers, judges, social workers, and a host of other professions. This is a tribute to his dynamic leadership, skills and competency. Felix wanted to do more to fulfill his dream. Realizing the importance of acquiring additional skills to be more effective in working with staff, parents and youth, Felix earned a Masters Degree in Administration and a Doctoral Degree in Guidance and Counseling. He applied for and was accepted as a staff person with the Special Projects Programs. He was, subsequently, promoted to Administrator. The Developmental Career Guidance Project, Youth Employment Training Project, The Minority Entrepreneur Program, Skills Training Program, and the Job Training Partnership Act Program are a few of the many programs he has administered. Being given the opportunity of providing leadership, skills and experiences to staff, parents and youth represents the apex of his lifelong dream. His ability, zest and zeal in implementing these programs has always defied that of the imagination. The legacy of his contributions, dedication and commitment in administering these programs are respected, honored and praised throughout the country. Among his many affiliations, Felix was a Life Member of the N.A.A.C.P. and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Dr. Felix Rodney Sloan

October 3, 1922 - August 1, 2013