John Morton-Finney: A Role Model’s Enduring Impact through Courage, Education, and Justice
I celebrate ACHIEVEMENT EVERY DAY! When I discover role models, I do not see skin color, age, religion, sex, attractiveness (ok, I like beautiful ladies), or other nonessentials. I love learning from inspirational people who inspire me to drop MY EXCUSES and DO IT! Role models who stretch my ambitions and make me reach for the impossible.
There is dignity in achievement and success—in becoming a great factor in civilization.” Carter G. Woodson.
I hope you will share these short articles; perhaps a few people will be curious to learn more.
Disclaimer: Good Day, Readers. WealthBuildingPowers blog is a financial literacy/competency blog and does not provide specific investment recommendations.
JOHN MORTON-FINNEY, A REMARKABLE MAN – A RAINBOW OF ROLE MODELS {WEDNESDAY SERIES}
Today’s remarkable role model is John Morton-Finney, a man whose incredible journey through the 20th century offers lessons for all of us.
Born on June 25, 1889, John Morton-Finney’s life spanned an astonishing 108 years, during which he witnessed and contributed to some of the most significant events and transformations in American history. His multifaceted career—as a soldier, scholar, lawyer, linguist, and educator—illustrates a rare blend of intellectual vigor, patriotic duty, and an unyielding commitment to justice and education.
A Soldier’s Courage
Morton-Finney’s early life set the stage for his remarkable career. During World War I, he served in the United States Army, a role that showcased his courage and sense of duty. Serving in a segregated military, he was part of a generation of African American soldiers who fought bravely, often facing discrimination and adversity not only from enemy forces but also within their ranks. His military service is a testament to his resilience and patriotism, laying a foundation for his future pursuits.
The Scholar’s Journey
After the war, Morton-Finney earned an astounding 11 degrees, a feat that speaks volumes about his intellectual curiosity and dedication. Among his degrees were those from notable institutions such as Indiana University, Butler University, and Lincoln University. His academic journey spanned various disciplines, reflecting a polymathic approach to learning.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Morton-Finney’s academic career was his relentless pursuit of education, even into his later years. At 75, when many would consider retirement, he earned his final degree—a striking affirmation that it’s never too late to learn. This milestone is a personal achievement and a powerful message to all about the importance of lifelong learning.
A Legal Luminary
Morton-Finney’s intellectual pursuits were paralleled by his distinguished career in law. Admitted to the bar in 1935, his legal career spanned an incredible seven decades. He practiced law until he was 107 years old, and he was one of the oldest practicing attorneys in the United States and one of the most dedicated. His legal work was characterized by a deep commitment to civil rights and social justice, advocating for equality at a time when such issues were often contentious and fraught with challenges.
His longevity in the legal field is a powerful testament to his mental acuity and physical endurance. It also underscores his unwavering dedication to the principles of justice and equality. His legal career is an enduring beacon of hope and perseverance for those who continue to fight for civil rights and social justice today.
A Master of Languages
Fluency in seven languages is an extraordinary accomplishment, considering most Americans speak one language, and many speak that one poorly! This fluency enriched his teaching, legal practice, and personal interactions. His ability to navigate multiple languages underscores a broader, inclusive worldview, fostering cross-cultural understanding and empathy.
Educator and Principal
As a teacher and high school principal in Indianapolis, Indiana, he influenced countless young minds, instilling in them the values of hard work, diligence, respect, and the pursuit of excellence. In an era when educational opportunities for African Americans were limited and fraught with systemic challenges, Morton-Finney’s role as an educator and principal was particularly significant. He provided education and served as a role model and mentor, demonstrating the transformative power of knowledge and perseverance throughout his life.
Legacy and Inspiration
Morton-Finney’s legacy is more relevant than ever. His life is a testament to the enduring power of education and dedication. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone navigating life’s challenges, John Morton-Finney’s story offers invaluable lessons and inspiration.
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LET’S EARN YOUR FINANCIAL FREEDOM!
BECAUSE I CARE
St Jude Hospital: The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Consistent with the vision of our founder Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion, or a family’s ability to pay.https://www.stjude.org/
Wounded Warrior Project: An American charity and veterans service organization that offers a variety of programs, services, and events for wounded veterans of the military https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org
Folds of Honor: Providing life-changing scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled military. And now, our mission expands to the families of America’s first responders. On our watch, those who protect our freedoms and our families will know they are not forgotten. https://foldsofhonor.org
Wilson’s No-Kill Animal Shelter: A N0-Kill shelter that is a top-rated non-profit. They compassionately care for all their animals. https://wilsoncountynokillanimalshelter.mywcn.com/
Tunnel To Towers: Since 9/11, we have been helping America’s heroes by providing mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children and by building specially-adapted smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. We are also committed to eradicating veteran homelessness and helping America to Never Forget September 11, 2001. https://dogood.t2t.org/give/320847/#!/donation/checkout
YOUR GREATNESS IS NOT WHAT YOU HAVE; IT’S WHAT YOU GIVE!
TRUST ME – YOU WILL LIKE THE BELOW POPULAR BLOGS!
YOUR GREATNESS IS NOT WHAT YOU HAVE; IT’s WHAT YOU GIVE!
YOUR GREATNESS IS NOT WHAT YOU HAVE; IT’S WHAT YOU GIVE!
A RAINBOW OF ROLE MODELS {WEDNESDAY SERIES} – BADRINARAYANAN KOTHANDARAMAN, ENPHASE ENERGY, CEO
RAINBOW OF ROLE MODELS– TEACHER RAYMOND NELSON CREATES GENTLEMEN’S CLUB TO TEACH LIFE LESSONS TO BOYS WHO HAVE NO DADS AT HOME
A RAINBOW OF ROLE MODELS {WEDNESDAY SERIES} – MARIO HOOVER – 16 YEARS OLD!
A RAINBOW OF ROLE MODELS {WEDNESDAY SERIES} – LEGENDARY INVESTOR JOHN ROGERS JR
https://wealthbuildingpowers.com/2022/03/09/black-and-brown-role-models-series-legendary-investor-john-rogers-jr/
BLACK HISTORY MONTH ROLE MODELS {SERIES} – ROBERT L. JOHNSON, FOUNDER BET – FEBRUARY 24, 2022
BLACK HISTORY MONTH ROLE MODELS {SERIES} – JAMES AND JILEA HEMMINGS BECOME THE FIRST AFRICAN AMERICANS OWNERS OF AN AUTONOMOUS GROCERY STORE – ON FEBRUARY 25, 2022
https://wealthbuildingpowers.com/2022/02/25/black-history-month-role-models-james-and-jilea-hemmings-become-first-african-americans-owners-of-an-autonomous-grocery-store-february-25-2022/
BLACK HISTORY MONTH ROLE MODELS {SERIES} BILLIONAIRE ROBERT F. SMITH – FEBRUARY 23, 2022
BLACK HISTORY MONTH ROLE MODELS -REGINALD LEWIS – FEBRUARY 22, 2022
https://wealthbuildingpowers.com/2022/02/22/black-history-month-role-models-reginald-lewis-february-22-2022/
“WHAT WE BECOME DEPENDS ON WHAT OUR FATHERS TEACH US AT ODD MOMENTS, WHEN THEY AREN’T TRYING TO TEACH US”
https://wealthbuildingpowers.com/2021/11/03/what-we-become-depends-on-what-our-fathers-teach-us-at-odd-moments-when-they-arent-trying-to-teach-us/
WE NEED MORE STEM MAJORS AND LEGACIES LIKE MYLES JOHNSON!
WE NEED MORE STEM MAJORS AND LEGACIES LIKE MYLES JOHNSON!
DADS WHO RAISED ME TO BE MORE THAN I COULD BE!
DADS WHO RAISED ME TO BE MORE THAN I COULD BE!
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY – “EDUCATION IS THE MOST POWERFUL WEAPON WITH WHICH YOU CAN CHANGE THE WORLD” NELSON MANDELLA
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ABOUT ME
I am a proud nerd (as my beautiful wife and daughter have told me) investment and finance blogger with an N.C. State, Chemical Engineering, University Rutgers, MBA and Harvard University, Advanced Management education.
I left a corporate career because I desired to make a difference as a speaker and writer. I was blessed to be coached and mentored by strong women and men in my family and professional life. It is my time to serve and give back.
DISCLAIMER
I started my first business at ~13 years of age (a small but brilliantly created plant nursery). I am a successful investor in stocks, options, and real estate and am happy to share my finance and investment lessons. I am NOT a licensed financial advisor. Please do not construe my suggestions on this blog as recommendations for your situation. As an investor, you must establish your risk/loss tolerance. Investment in any asset involves risk, including complete loss.
Please seek your licensed CPA or fiduciary financial advisors for individual financial advice.
I write this weekly blog to make an impact by reaching an audience and demonstrating the need for financial literacy. I will help you get there.
