The Mayberrys Take On DC: Representing SAMFA on the Capitol

San Angelo, TX – Recently, Mr. Rodney Mayberry and his wife Beverly represented San Angelo and the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts during a recent trip to Washington DC. The Mayberrys had the opportunity to attend the grand opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture on September 24.

Mayberry has been a resident of San Angelo for a long time and is owner of R M Electrical, better known as Mayberry Electric. Having served on the museum’s board for nearly two years, he was unanimously selected as the new president of the board this past February.

Having the opportunity to witness the opening of a historical museum was an incredible experience for the Mayberrys. The museum’s purpose was to showcase the incredible things the African American community has brought into the United States throughout history and the impact they have provided to society.

“It was a powerful, emotional experience because the evidence of what African Americans contributed to this nation was right in front of you, in black and white,” Rodney Mayberry said.

He described the museum as not having a place for the anger and hatred that has been present in the history of the nation, but rather as place to learn and acknowledge the growth and importance of the African American culture to the country.

The project was initiated by President George Bush and his wife who pioneered for the funding and development of the museum before congress. For Mr. Mayberry, it was an added bonus to know a Texan had been instrumental in this endeavor, especially since he’s made Texas his home since 1971.

At the museum, the Mayberrys had the opportunity to meet and see various influential figures, from President Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, Oprah, and Will Smith, and others who attended the grand opening. This included having the opportunity to visit with Reverend Jessie Jackson after the Mayberrys accidently bumped into him at the museum.

The couple also met with San Angelo native Mario Castillo, a well-known and respected lobbyist in DC. The Mayberrys met with Castillo at his home and had the opportunity to learn more about the comings and goings of the capital.

“[We] spent the evening getting the West Texas flair in the middle of Washington DC,” Mayberry said.

Overall, this trip was possible through the collaboration of SAMFA Director Howard Taylor and Congressman Mike Conaway, who both worked ardently to provide Mayberry and his wife the opportunity to witness this important moment in history.

“With the wonderful, outgoing personality that he has, well respected in the community as a business man, community leader, I think he brings a lot to our board and our community, and we are thrilled to have him representing us,” Taylor said.

As for Mayberry, he said he is very proud to serve his community, and he's thankful for being a part of SAMFA, especially given the involvement the museum has in the community. The programs and exhibits provided by SAMFA are instrumental to the cultural development of the community and growth of young artists, he said.

“You have a responsibility to the culture and to the community where you live,” Mayberry said. “To give them your best no matter what it is, no matter where you are.”