Meet Rhonda Burnough | Retired Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rhonda Burnough and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rhonda, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
The R&M African American Museum was created from a dream — a dream to share a lifetime of cherished memories, culture, and history with others. It all started with a comment from my nephew Austin, who shared, “You sure have a lot of collectibles!”

Before I ever set foot in Georgia, I had already fallen in love with collecting African American art. Back then, finding these treasures meant seeking out dealers and galleries — places like Heritage Art Gallery in Houston, Texas, Terry’s Florist, Jerry Holloway’s Gallery, and Eric’s “I’ve Been Framed” in Detroit, Michigan. Along the way, I gathered artist proofs from masters like Frank Frazier, Lionel Lofton, and Detroit’s own Ron Scarborough. I also discovered the joy of collecting works by Annie Lee, African American Lenox Angels, Daddy Long Legs figurines, and charming African American clowns — each piece telling its own vibrant story.

But my heart has always been especially drawn to African American dolls and Santa Clauses. My first African American Santa was a Christmas gift from my dear friend Jackie. That one gift sparked a journey. Soon, my friends and I were on a mission, joyfully hunting for African American Santas, Nutcrackers, and ornaments wherever we could find them. We learned early on: you had to be quick! These treasures would sell out fast. Over the years, I found beloved pieces at Macy’s, Dillard’s, JCPenney, Kroger, TJ Maxx, Walmart, and Avon. Each discovery felt like a small celebration of culture and pride.

As my collection grew, so did my desire to share it. I especially wanted young people to see themselves reflected in art, history, and celebration. And so, the R&M African American Museum was born.

When I moved to Clayton County in 1995, the face of leadership was still changing. By 2004, history was made: we elected our first African American Sheriff, District Attorney, Commission Chairman, Solicitor General, and several Judges. It was a moment of pride and progress. I knew immediately that my museum would not only honor cultural collectibles but also the trailblazers who changed the course of our county’s history.

Today, the R&M museum stands as a testament — not just to the art and ornaments I lovingly collected, but to the spirit, resilience, and achievements of the African American community in Clayton County and beyond.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When I first graduated from Southern University with a Journalism degree, opportunities were limited. My mother, ever resourceful, took me to the Detroit Public Schools Personnel Office to apply as a substitute teacher — and that’s where my love for education truly began.
As a substitute at Cooper Elementary School, the principal recognized my potential and gave me countless opportunities to grow and develop as an educator. Inspired, I enrolled at Wayne State University to complete the courses needed to become a certified teacher. I was fortunate to have an outstanding coach during my student teaching, who further fueled my passion for the classroom.

However, when I moved to Houston, the path wasn’t easy. I struggled to secure a position with Houston Independent School District and initially taught at two Catholic schools — the first offered little pay, but the second, an elite institution, paid much better and broadened my experience.

My big break came in an unexpected way: one of my students, who lived next door to a principal in the prestigious Rice University neighborhood, recommended me. That principal’s husband was a professor at the University of Houston, and after interviewing with her, I was hired. It felt like destiny. I went on to earn my Master’s degree from the University of Houston, deepening my commitment to education even further.

Teaching wasn’t just a job — it was in my blood. I became active in the National Alliances of Black School Educators and the Houston branch, where I built invaluable relationships. It was at one of these conferences that I met my husband, who lived in Oklahoma at the time. Believing a neutral location would give our marriage the best chance to succeed, we chose to make Georgia our home.

Despite the challenges we faced during our relocation, my career soared. I began work as a fifth-grade teacher and advanced to become a Gifted Teacher, an Instructional Lead Teacher, and ultimately, the Community Relations Liaison for Clayton County Public Schools. That role allowed me to connect with elected officials, business leaders, and community organizations. I had the honor of working closely with five Superintendents, many of whom I still maintain relationships with today.

During this time, I also earned my Specialist Degree in Leadership. Those experiences — being at the intersection of education, leadership, and community — lit a fire in me to serve on a broader scale. I decided to run for State Representative, challenging and ultimately defeating a 16-year incumbent.

I worked tirelessly during my first term, and when I ran for re-election, I had no opponent. I have continued to serve without opposition since I was first elected in 2016, using my knowledge, experiences, and relationships to advocate powerfully for my district.

My journey, however, was not without obstacles. I was removed from my Community Relations role by an Assistant Superintendent who believed I had “too much power.” While that may have been true, I never misused it. When I was reassigned to a school, I faced yet another removal after two years. Each time, rather than complain, I chose to see it as an opportunity for growth. I learned that no position is permanent, and that success often demands flexibility and faith.

I am proud of how I built a life and career in a place where I started with knowing only one person. Even as my personal life faced challenges — my husband has filed for divorce four times, and while he returned three times, the future remains uncertain — I know that God has been preparing me every step of the way.

Today, I find deep joy and purpose in my role as an elected official. One of my greatest honors has been serving under the leadership of Stacey Abrams, whose guidance and dedication to excellence prepared and empowered us to succeed.

No matter what lies ahead, I stand firmly on the foundation of resilience, faith, and the unwavering belief that every challenge is simply a stepping stone to greater purpose.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
They arrived late Thursday evening, and after picking them up, we stopped for a delicious meal at Volare on the way to my home.
Friday morning started with a leisurely breakfast at Gocha’s in Fayetteville. After enjoying our meal, I took them downtown to the Georgia State Capitol. I showed them my office and gave them a tour of the Capitol, including a special visit to the House floor where we took photos. I made sure to highlight the portraits of prominent African Americans and the beautiful Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. statue outside.

After the Capitol, we visited Dr. King’s childhood home, the King Center, and historic Ebenezer Baptist Church — walking in the footsteps of history.

From there, we headed to Lenox Mall for a little shopping. On the way back, we picked up an early dinner from Busy Bee Café, the James Beard Award-winning soul food restaurant. We brought our meals home and enjoyed them together.

Later that evening, we went out to Nouveau Bar & Grill in Jonesboro, where they feature live entertainment. Afterward, we strolled over to the B’Mari Art Center to listen to more music and enjoy dessert — the perfect ending to a vibrant day.

On Saturday, I took them to the future site of the R&M Museum. We spent most of the day there, working on ideas for the layout of the exhibits and signage — it was exciting to see the vision come to life. That evening, we went out for a nice dinner to celebrate the progress.

Sunday morning, we attended service at Elizabeth Baptist Church, followed by a wonderful lunch at Pappadeaux’s. The rest of the day was spent relaxing, talking, and simply enjoying each other’s company.

She left on Monday morning, and as I reflected on the weekend, I felt grateful for the time we spent together — sharing history, dreams, and new memories.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The individuals who have mentored, encouraged, and loved me throughout my journey are a true blessing.

My mother and grandmothers have been my pillars of strength. They loved me unconditionally, believed in my dreams, and supported every career move I made — from Detroit to Houston, and eventually to Georgia. Their unwavering faith gave me the courage to pursue my path with confidence.

When I moved to Houston, I was fortunate to meet five extraordinary women who became my closest friends and my foundation for over forty years: Althea Cooper, Vicki Preer, Yolanda Adams, Zelda Miller, and Kimilia Davis — who I first met when she was just a second grader, and later had the joy of teaching in fourth grade. These women have walked beside me through every season of life, offering steadfast friendship, wisdom, and love.

When I relocated to Georgia, I only knew one person — my husband, whom I met in November 1994 and married in July 1995. At my very first school, I met Jocelyn Wright, and she quickly became my lifeline. Jocelyn, a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, welcomed me with open arms, even though I am a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Through her, I was introduced to other Deltas and found not just colleagues, but lifelong friends. Jocelyn’s support made my transition smoother and her friendship continues to be a precious gift.

My beloved sorority, Delta Sigma Theta, has also played a significant role in my success. Through Delta, I was exposed to networks of successful African American women, which helped me become actively engaged in my community and inspired me to reach higher.

I am also deeply grateful for the friendships I formed through the Clayton County Chamber of Commerce. Four dear friends and I stood side by side, supporting each other’s careers, sharing resources, championing community initiatives, and serving together on the Leadership Clayton Board. Our bond was built on a shared commitment to making a difference.

Finally, my church family and the members of my small group class, along with our wonderful instructor, have been a source of unwavering encouragement, love, and spiritual guidance. Their presence has helped me grow in faith, find strength in challenges, and keep my heart centered on what truly matters.

I am who I am today because of the love, mentorship, and support of these incredible people. Their belief in me has shaped my journey, and I am forever grateful.

Website: https://staterepresentativerhondaburnough.com

Instagram: @Statereprhondaburnough

Twitter: StateRepRhondaB

Facebook: StateRepresentativeRhondaBurnough

Image Credits
Photographer
Forest Burse
Headshot Nathan Pearcy