You Touched Me; Therefore, I Am

About the Book

“You Touched Me; Therefore, I Am” is a book about my life, Dr. Pearlia Mae Wallace Derrick. I have recounted my professional life as an educator as well as a wife, and mother. Education, work experiences and philosophy, family, travel. hobbies and family life are topics I have discussed with candor and wise insights. My commitment to the religious life of service is evident throughout the book. My story of life lived with challenges but lived well, provides inspiration for young people who are searching for encouragement as they begin their adult life. My life story is also of special interest to others who may be struggling with what may appear to be limited opportunities. Readers find in this book a story of positive response to life in all its dimensions.

About the Author

My name is Dr. Pearlia Mae Wallace Derrick, born in Gilmer, Texas, the ninth of ten children born to S B and Pearl Wallace. After graduating from Valley View High School in Gilmer, Texas, I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree from Florida Memorial College, St. Augustine, Florida, and a Masters Degree from Tuskegee Institute, Tuskegee, Alabama. Elementary Education was my major for both degrees. In 1972, I was awarded a doctoral degree from Texas Woman’s University, in Denton, Texas. My major was Early Childhood Education. My career included teaching and administrative responsibilities at Tuskegee Institute and Texas College, Tyler, Texas. My major responsibilities were in teacher training. I also served as a member of the Texas Education Agency Evaluation Team which evaluated teach education programs at colleges and universities in Texas. In addition to a satisfying professional career, I have enjoyed serving in several ministries in my church, Greater St. Mary Baptist Church, Tyler, Texas, and community services. Hobbies have been an opportunity of much joy in my life which includes writing poet- ry, singing, and traveling.