Rep. Sims Pays Tribute to Local Author and Educator Dr. Marilyn Sanders Mobley to Kick Off the Year of Toni Morrison

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Veronica Sims (D-Akron) yesterday rose on the House floor to celebrate the life and legacy of Ohio’s own Nobel Laureate, Toni Morrison. Rep. Sims also recognized the achievements and contributions of the extraordinary Dr. Marilyn Sanders Mobely, a Toni Morrison Scholar and acclaimed author. 

“Dr. Mobley is a founding and lifetime member of the Toni Morrison Society, formerly serving as President. For many years she has led as a professor of English and African American Studies and has dedicated much of her career to studying the richness of Dr. Morrison’s work, focusing on themes of race, place, and culture,” said Rep. Sims. “I am proud to say that Dr. Mobley is not only a profound author and educator; she is also an ordained associate minister at my beloved church, as well as an impeccable role model and friend.”

A fitting tribute on what would have been Dr. Morrison’s 95th birthday, the Ohio House passed legislation to honor her during the yearlong celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, championed by America250 Ohio. This recognition is especially powerful as it takes place during the 100th anniversary of Black History Month and serves as a reminder of Ohio’s roots in African American literary excellence and the importance of preserving these narratives as part of America’s history.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of Rep. Sims with Dr. Marilyn Sanders Mobley and the family of Toni Morrison is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio House Democrats.