Speaker Spotlight: Edwin F. Bailey, Jr.

Edwin F. Bailey Jr. began his professional career as an elementary teacher in the St. Louis Public Schools. After seven years of teaching, Bailey moved into the higher education arena, first with the University of Missouri-St. Louis where he served for four years as a financial aid administrator, and later with St. Louis Community College where he continued his career in financial aid administration. In 1991, Bailey became Dean for Student Development Services at the Meramec Campus of the College where he served until his retirement in June of 2006.

Bailey’s interest in the Buffalo Soldiers spans over two decades. Since first learning about their legacy, he has been on a continuing quest to engage in research, and to share with others the richness of the African-American presence in U.S. military history. Over the last fifteen years, Bailey has presented for elementary, high school and college classes, church groups, civic and community groups, military organizations and the Missouri History Museum. He holds a Bachelors Degree in Education from Harris Teachers’ College, a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and a Ph.D. in Public Policy Analysis and Administration from Saint Louis University.