Derek Interview

Introduction

  • Interview Context
    • Interview conducted by Renee Collins with Derek Ramsey
    • Part of the UK's Diversity Oral History Project
    • Location: UK Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History

Personal Information

  • Name: Derek Kent Ramsey
    • Spelled: D-E-R-R-I-C-K, K-E-N-T, R-A-M-S-E-Y
  • Current Occupation: Secretary of Education and Workforce Development for the Commonwealth of Kentucky

Understanding of Diversity

  • Personal Definition of Diversity:

    • Encompasses various races including but not limited to: African Americans, whites, Asians, Africans, Europeans, Australians.
    • Aspiration for a team to reflect diversity akin to a "United Nations meeting."
    • Importance of blending in a multicultural America for success.

  • Evolution of Understanding Diversity:

    • Noted past perceptions of diversity during the 1970s in Lexington as primarily black and white, lacking broader representation.
    • Emphasizes the need for embracing a diverse world for competitiveness in the workplace and society.

Life Experiences

  • Happiest Moment:
    • Being born to wonderful parents and raised among siblings.
  • Important Life Lessons:
    • Leadership and teamwork learned from being an African American quarterback in a predominantly white team at UK.
  • Proud Moment:
    • Being recognized as a team leader prioritizing team success over personal gain.

Residency History

  • Current Residence: Lexington, KY (returned to Lexington in 2015)
  • Previous Residency:
    • Moved away in 1978 to play with the Oakland Raiders.
    • Later lived in various locations for career opportunities.

Experience at the University of Kentucky

  • Attended as a student starting in 1974.
  • Lexington and UK during that time were described as distinct from current diversity experiences.
    • Noted the presence of Vietnam veterans on campus and issues of their treatment.
  • Community Growth:
    • Noted the population growth from 90,000 to over 300,000 since 1974.
    • Expressed concern over diversity in faculty and administration within the university.

Early Life in Florida

  • Hometown: Hastings, FL with a population of 750.
  • Family Background:
    • Parents: Rudolph and Elizabeth Ramsey (both passed).
    • Siblings:
    • Oldest brother: Rudolph
    • Sister: Mildred
    • Brother: Robert (Bob)
    • Youngest brother: Reggie
  • Education:
    • Attended a small integrated school from first to twelfth grade.
    • Enjoyed sports: Football and basketball were significant in early life.

Transition to New Jersey

  • Moved to Camden, NJ at age 15 due to uncle's coaching opportunity.
  • Attended high school with a population of approximately 4,500 students, representing a substantial increase in diversity and opportunity.
  • Successful high school career led to scholarship offers, including University of Michigan.

Career Highlights in Sports

  • Became the first African American starting quarterback at the University of Kentucky.
  • NFL Career:
    • 9 years including playing for the Raiders, New England Patriots, and Detroit Lions.
    • Achievements: Super Bowl Championship in 1981 and playoff appearance in 1986.
  • Recollections of success: Acknowledged how winning and team contribution shaped career pride.

Post-NFL Career

  • Joined UK as Community Relations Officer post-football (1994).
    • Addressed race issues and the importance of minority representation.
  • Served as Athletic Director at Kentucky State University, focusing on increasing academic scholarships and improving GPA outcomes for students.
  • Appointed as Deputy Secretary of Commerce in 2003 under Governor Ernie Fletcher, managing a significant budget and focusing on diversity-related initiatives.
  • Athletic Director at Coppin State University, achieving high graduation rates and GPA increases in student athletes.

Return to Kentucky

  • In 2015 appointed Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development, responsible for worker's compensation and safety for 1.9 million workers.
    • Focused on workforce participation and safety improvements, particularly through apprenticeship programs.
  • Became a board member at UK, involved in addressing diversity and inclusion concerns.

Commitment to Diversity

  • Discussed the ongoing challenges faced by historically underrepresented groups.
    • Importance of representation and support structures within educational settings.
    • Sense of belonging crucial to the college experience.
  • Advocacy for diversity initiatives, emphasizing the need for awareness and engagement among all stakeholders.

Reflections on Legacy

  • Desires to be remembered for dedication to helping others advance in life through education and community engagement.
    • Acknowledges past experiences and the hope of bringing positive change through current roles.

Conclusion

  • Expresses gratitude for the opportunity to share experiences and reflections on diversity and inclusion.