Amy Kleppner: A Tribute to a Life of Adventure and Advocacy
Amy M. Kleppner, the niece of legendary aviator Amelia Earhart, passed away at the age of 93 after a life filled with remarkable accomplishments. Born in 1931 in Boston, Mass., Amy dedicated her life to teaching, writing, and advocating for women’s rights and racial justice. Her legacy as an adventurer, author, and advocate will be remembered for generations to come.
An Unforgettable Legacy
Amy Kleppner’s impact on those around her was profound, as she touched the lives of many through her various roles as a teacher, writer, and activist. Her career in education began in the early 1960s at Howard University, where she influenced the minds of future leaders such as Stokely Carmichael and Claude Brown. After a brief hiatus to start a family, Amy continued her teaching journey in Maryland high schools, imparting knowledge and wisdom to countless students over the years.
Beyond the classroom, Amy was a prolific writer, publishing articles on a wide range of topics, from historical art to hiking. She authored three books, including a forthcoming work on Amelia Earhart’s advocacy for women’s rights, showcasing her passion for empowering women and promoting equality.
A Life of Adventure
Amy Kleppner’s adventurous spirit knew no bounds, as she embarked on numerous expeditions and daring feats throughout her lifetime. From biking from Boston to Québec City as a teenager to climbing the High Peaks in the Adirondacks, Amy’s thirst for exploration was insatiable. Her travels took her across the globe, from Siberia to New Zealand, where she engaged in activities such as canal boating, trekking, and swimming, pushing the boundaries of what was possible at every turn.
An Advocate for Change
In addition to her adventurous pursuits, Amy was a fierce advocate for women’s rights and racial justice, following in the footsteps of her pioneering aunt, Amelia Earhart. She played a pivotal role in the campaign for the Equal Rights Amendment, supported women’s organizations like Planned Parenthood, and served on the Wardsboro selectboard, championing gender equality in local governance. Amy’s commitment to creating a more equitable world extended beyond her professional endeavors, as she established scholarships to empower young women of color to pursue higher education.
Remembering Amy Kleppner
Amy Kleppner’s impact on her community and beyond is a testament to her unwavering dedication to education, advocacy, and adventure. Her legacy will live on through the lives she touched and the causes she championed. As we reflect on her remarkable life, let us honor Amy’s memory by continuing to strive for a more just and inclusive society.
