ESPER 35th Anniversary Cover

Established in 1988, the Ebony Society of Philatelic Events and Reflections (ESPER) was founded by its namesake, Dr. Esper G. Hayes (1934 - 2019), as a promise to Olympian Jesse Owens whom she met at a stamp show at which the two were the only African Americans. Dr.
Esper Hayes lived a life of service and beyond her love for philately, she also served the community by working with various youth organizations, helping young people to gain the skills they needed to be successful. Dr. Hayes obtained advanced degrees in social work and later taught Human Growth and Development and Social Policy at Seton Hall University. She ultimately became a social worker to assist children find stability in their lives. It is not surprising with this background that she devoted her interests in philately with the dream that African Americans, especially young people, would develop pride in themselves by understanding their heritage through philatelic material. ESPER has become a notable component of the philatelic community ensuring that Dr. Hayes' vision and legacy prevail.