Our people: Accomplished in the community

My name is Bruce Pollard. I am retired from American Water Company after 31 years of service. I was born to Joe and Myrtle Pollard along with four siblings, two brothers and two sisters. I have been married to Joyce Brown Pollard for 57 years. We have two adult children, Bridgett and Andre' Pollard, five grandchildren Andrea, Andre, Chrishana, Bryce and Jailen, two great grandchildren Julian Velasquez and Jayce Williams and a pet dog named Bubbi. I love to play golf, go to classic car shows, read and vacation with my grandchildren and travel in the United States, Jamaica, Cancun and the Bahama Islands. I played a role in the movie "Believe in Me" and also served ten years in the Army and the reserves.

What is your most prized possession?

My prized possessions are my golf clubs.

What's your idea of a perfect day?

A perfect day would be spending the day with my grandchildren at the park.

How would you like to be remembered?

I would like to be remembered as a nice caring person who tried to help people in need.

What do you collect?

I collect caps from places that I've visited while traveling.

Favorite quote?

"Education is the key to your future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today." - Malcolm X

Tell us about a time you cried.

I cried when a drunk driver crashed into my son's car, killed his friend, and gave my son a concussion that caused him temporary memory loss. I also cried at the death of my parents and when my daughter left for college in New York.

What is an accomplishment you're proud of?

Being married for 57 years, a great father, grandfather, and great grandfather. I also was instrumental in getting the street named in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., establishing the monument of Dr. King and his wife Coretta Scott and getting Lincoln Jackson School listed onto the State and National Historical Register in 2018. I am also proud to be president of Lincoln Jackson School Alumni Association since 1989. I also serve on numerous boards and committees.

- Compiled by Staff Writer Jamie Cushman