Editor’s note: For this year’s Black History Month, Greater Union Life Center is sponsoring banners along Woodland Boulevard in DeLand honoring 16 individuals who have made a positive impact on the city of DeLand, and Volusia County.
Bishop Eugene Collier has been a religious leader at New Saint John Missionary Baptist
Church at 515 S. Clara Ave. in DeLand for 12 years. He told The Beacon he grew up to lead and only ever imagined doing so.
As a Black History Month honoree, Collier is ready to be seen as an example for the next generation.
“I was always motivated in the church and with my growth of being trained and taught about leading,” Collier said. “Eventually it became my calling from God.”
Born and raised in DeLand, Collier said he was honored to be recognized for his accomplishments in the city.
“Black History Month is about remembering and celebrating our legacy and where we
have come from as a group of people — our accomplishments and what we are trying to instill to the next generation: That values, hard work, and dedication will pay off,” Collier said.