Carolyn L Payne

Having taught high school mathematics for 40 years, I, Carolyn L. Payne, originally from South Carolina, am a retiree of the Pennsylvania and Delaware public school systems. During the last 6 years of my teaching career, I developed an interest in the performing arts at Cab Calloway School of the Arts. 

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Benedict College and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Wilmington University. I am a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and a charter member of the Alumnae Chapter in Chester, PA. 

I am currently the Outreach Coordinator at my church, St. Daniel’s United Methodist Church and was nominated “Committed Christian Woman of the Year” for outstanding services to church and community. I am also president of St. Daniel’s Ray of Hope Community Development Corporation with its mission to facilitate economic development and community outreach, enhancing the quality of life for residents of Chester City and surrounding areas.

In 2011, with many volunteers, I initiated and chaired Juneteenth, a “celebration of freedom” festival on the grounds of the church, attracting hundreds of people. The festival grew over the years. In 2016, the festival became citywide and we moved to Chester Memorial Park.  

I am the mother of two children, Sonya and Chet, and two grandsons, Shamiel and Shawn.