03/29/2026
Today, we proudly recognize Soror Gertrude Young!
Gertrude Anderson Young is a dynamic trailblazer whose life’s work reflects service, advocacy, and transformative leadership.
A native of Indianola, Mississippi, and a proud graduate of North Vicksburg High School (Class of 1973), Soror Young continued her academic journey at Mississippi Valley State University (1976, Nursing) and later earned a degree in Political Science from Alcorn State University (1999), with additional studies in pre-med at Jackson State University.
Her professional journey is both diverse and impactful. She has served as a Registered Nurse, Real Estate Broker, North Ward Alderwoman, and Vice Mayor of Vicksburg, while also using her voice as a minister and writer to inspire and uplift others. Driven by her passion for affordable housing, she became a licensed real estate broker and achieved distinction as a multimillion-dollar producer.
As Vice Mayor of Vicksburg, she was instrumental in developing an after-school program at the Kings Community Center for school-age youth who had been expelled from the Vicksburg Warren Public Schools. Through her leadership, she secured certified teachers, counselors, tutors, technology, and transportation—creating a pathway for students to continue their education. The program proved highly successful, with the majority of participants ultimately completing high school.
Her commitment to community extends through her work with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, NRoute Transportation, Good Shepherd, MidWest Board of Directors, and Graduation Alliance, consistently working to uplift and transform lives. Her legacy is further cemented through her role in the development of the Jackson Street and Kings Community Center—now known as the Gertrude Young Community Center—as well as contributions to the city annex, expanding opportunities for the community she so faithfully serves.
Her excellence has been widely recognized, earning honors including:
• Child Advocate of the Year
• Who’s Who in America and the U.S.A.
• Vicksburg Homecoming Benevolent Award
• Community Advocate Recognition for preserving heritage and service
A devoted woman of faith, she has served as a Youth Minister at Mount Carmel Baptist Church, pouring into the next generation spiritually and emotionally. Alongside her husband, John, she lovingly helped raise three of her sister’s children—demonstrating that her nurturing spirit extends far beyond titles.
Soror Young was initiated into the Vicksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated in 2000, where her line name is Work-A-Lot. She has served faithfully as Chaplain and chaired the Political Awareness Committee, continuing her lifelong commitment to civic engagement and empowerment.
Through advocacy, leadership, and unwavering service, Gertrude Anderson Young has not only opened doors—she has built pathways for others to walk boldly into opportunity and purpose.
Congratulations, Soror Gertrude Young---a true trailblazer! May your legacy continue to impact lives for years to come!