First Black Mayor of Hope recognized by Black History of Old Washington, Arkansas

We absolutely love our “First” in Black History. First Black Town, First Black Oscar, First Black President. We love our trailblazers who help us realize that the power is within us, we have been the catalyst for many of the “World’s First” since the beginning of civilization.

Today, we honor Hope, Arkansas First Black Mayor, Floyd Young, Jr.
Born July 7, 1939, to Floyd Young, Sr .and Cora Bell Armstrong Young. The youngest of three children, Floyd Jr. was born and grew up in McCaskill, Arkansas. He graduated from Blevins Training School in 1957. Floyd went to Arkansas AM&N college and received a B.S. Education-Mathematics from Arkansas AM&N college in 1961. He continued to Henderson State University and received a M.S. Education- Guidance and Counseling in 1961, and further graduate studies at Texas Southern University.

His career started in Education in the Southwest Arkansas region. He taught classes at Carver H.S., Clow Training School, Lincoln High School, Yerger high school- where he also counselled. He was a Counselor at Hope H.S. He became Asst. Director of Counseling at Red River Vo-tech School. He went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Sonny Boy, as he was affectionally called, was known for his gentle spirit, kind heart, and his deep love for his family and community.

His career took him into Higher Education as the Vice Chancellor for student services at University of Arkansas Community College. Guidance Specialist and GED administrator for Arkansas Department of Education. Counselor for Arkansas Employment Security Division. Chairman of Arkansas Counseling Board of Examiners, and President of the Arkansas School Counselors Association.

He was a true Civil Servant, Educator, and Counselor. His passion for service and people led him to be involved in many community organizations as well, such as being President of the Kiwanis Club, Board of Directors Hope Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors of Medical Park Hospital, Member of Hope Housing Authority Board and many other engagements within Hope.
Floyd Young, Jr. was elected and served as the First Black Mayor of Hope, Arkansas from 1983 to 1986.

In his earlier years he married Arlene, and to this union, three children were born.
His monumental accomplishment of a life dedicated to uplifting his community, service, education and mental health was astonishing to say the least.
Mr. Floyd Young, Jr. passed on Oct. 17, 2025. His legacy still endures till this day and beyond. We salute him.