Memorials, Recognition - Dr. Charles Edward Dudley, Sr. -

SJR 162 is a Tennessee legislative resolution honoring the memory of Dr. Charles Edward Dudley, Sr., a civil rights activist and Seventh-day Adventist minister who dedicated his life to racial justice and community leadership. The resolution recognizes his 31-year presidency of the South Central Conference (1962-1993), during which he grew church membership from 4,300 to 23,000, built 100+ church and school facilities, and secured federal housing support for underprivileged communities. It commemorates his advocacy for racial equality during the Civil Rights Movement and his role in expanding educational opportunities, including tripling Oakwood College's enrollment. As a non-binding commemorative resolution, it does not impose legal requirements or affect any group.