JAZM Celebrates Black History Month
Upstate Black History Maker Trannie Mosley Recognized February 17, 2008
A Passion for Reading

During the 60s, she was forced to sit in the balcony of the movie theaters, but these days she's front and center educating our future. We're proud to recognize Trannie Mosley as one of our 2008 Upstate Black History Makers.

Trannie Mosley is a quiet giant in the educational arena. A Spartanburg native, Trannie was one of the first students to integrate schools in Spartanburg County when she attended Spartanburg High School rather than the all-black high school.

Trannie credits her first grade teacher, Catherine Duncan, for inspiring her to teach. When Trannie was in the third grade, Ms. Duncan invited her back to help with the first-grade reading groups. Helping others to read and enjoy reading then began Trannie's lifelong passion.

Trannie graduated from Converse College with her B.A. in English, Language Arts & Latin and then earned her Masters in English. She decided to stay in the Upstate to give back to her community as an educator.

Trannie has now been teaching at Spartanburg High School for over 32 years. She is an English teacher, and to her knowledge is the only African American Latin teacher in the Upstate since integration. In addition, Trannie also teaches Latin at Carver Junior High School.

Trannie continually seeks to dispel stereotypes about African Americans through her profession and her professionalism. When asked, she donates her spare time to help tutor students in her first love, reading.

Trannie is also a role model to numerous young adults as she serves as one of the advisors of the Spartanburg High School Black History Club. The club seeks to educate others about African American History. They take on several service-oriented projects throughout the year, such as collecting canned goods and providing assistance to The Children's Shelter of Spartanburg.

Trannie is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Through the organization, Trannie has helped to raise over $6,000.00 in scholarship funds for seniors who want to attend college.

Trannie is a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church and helps with their New Member and Finance committees. Trannie lives with her cat, Sissy, in Spartanburg County.

From the back of the balcony to the head of the class, 107.3 JAMZ is proud to salute Trannie Mosley as a 2008 Upstate Black History Maker.