Breaking Barriers: Black Leadership & Representation on the Town Council

In 1974, Theresa M. Norris was the first African-American elected to Sykesville’s Town Council. In addition to her service as a council member, Mrs. Norris was very active in the surrounding community. She volunteered in various capacities as a member of Mt. Gregory United Methodist Church in Cooksville, MD, where she was a Sunday School Teacher, Liturgist, Communion Steward, Bushy Park Cemetery Committee member, and Lay Leader. Professionally, Mrs. Norris was a dedicated teacher and caregiver, working with adults with special needs with Change, Inc.

Eugene Johnson Sr. was first elected to the Sykesville Town Council in 1985. He served as a councilman and as the President of the Council for a total of 24 years, retiring from his council duties in 2009. See below for an interview of Mr. Johnson by his daughter, Mary Castle.