The Power of Homeownership: Louise Scott Rountree's Inspiring Legacy
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Meet Louise Scott Rountree, a trailblazer in Newark's real estate world. Her inspiring legacy reminds us of the power and importance of homeownership. Learn more about her incredible journey and the impact she has left in the community. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, this video is a must-watch.
Discover the true power of homeownership with Louise Scott Rountree. Stepping into the grandeur of the Kruger Scott Mansion feels like traversing through the chapters of a living history book, and who better to guide us than Reverend Louise Scott Rountree? As we sit with her amidst the echoes of a bygone era, we're treated to a rich narrative that weaves her family's industrious roots with the cultural fabric of Newark. Reverend Rountree's childhood stories captivate us—imagine growing up in a 15,000-square-foot haven, with a mother whose entrepreneurial flair was as expansive as the mansion itself.
The reverend shares how her mother's innovative house hacking provided more than just a roof; it fostered a community for college students and served as the cornerstone of familial wealth and stability. Yet, beyond the walls of this historic home, lies a heart committed to the vibrancy of Newark's community. Reverend Rountree, wearing the dual hats of a local councilwoman and a daughter of the city, offers a rare glimpse into the emotional complexities of public service. From the joy of uniting diverse cultures through local events to the sentimental weight of urban development—every legislative decision treads a careful path between progress and preservation. Our conversation unearths the layered challenges of fulfilling her mother's ministerial legacy while shaping a future that honors the past.
The cornerstone of our exchange anchors in homeownership, a vessel for both financial and emotional sanctuary. Reverend Rountree and I underscore the transformative power of owning property, from the tangible rewards of generational wealth to the intangible comforts of a stable family home. We also address the importance of financial independence, touching upon life lessons ingrained from a young age and the clear message that personal stability is a goal worth striving for. Reverend Rountree's heartfelt gratitude for the space she's been given to share her story resonates deeply, as we conclude our conversation with an open door to further discovery and inspiration.
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In This Episode:
00:00 Growing Up in a Big House
09:10 Family, Real Estate, and Newark Community
15:30 Councilwoman Responsibilities and Personal Challenges
28:48 Sales to Counseling and Politics Transition
36:22 The Impact of Fathers and Guidance
42:35 The Importance of Homeownership and Stability
46:10 Maintaining Independence and Financial Stability
ABOUT Rev. Louise Scott-Rountree:
Rev. Louise Scott-Rountree was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey and is the daughter of the Rev. Dr. Malachi D. Rountree and the late Mrs. Louise Scott-Rountree. Her mother and father insisted that she understood the importance of believing and trusting God in all circumstances, giving back and serving which ultimately prepared her for her journey of faith and ministry and public service. She was introduced to God and service at a very early age and by the age of four, she could be found singing the Lord’s Prayer at various ceremonies in the community.
Rev. Rountree attended Quitman Elementary School in Newark and completed her High School studies as a graduate of Star of the Sea/Chelsea Academy in Long Branch, N.J. After serving in ministry for many years, she entered and completed her studies at New York Theological Seminary where she received a degree in Religious Studies and Christian Education. Rev. Rountree was employed by the City of Newark and has worked in the Office of the Mayor under the leadership of Mayor Ras J. Baraka. She has served as the Manager of Clergy Affairs and is the first female to be appointed in this role in the City’s history, in this position Rev. Rountree has coordinated and continues to coordinate the efforts of Newark’s diverse faith-based community as founder and chair of the Newark Interfaith Alliance, which is comprised of over 500 faith leaders. They work collectively to improve the quality of life of all Newark residents and service families through many efforts including grief support, food distribution, health and wellness. She has also served under the administrations of former Mayors Sharpe James, Cory A. Booker and Luis A. Quintana. In May of 2022, Rev. Rountree was elected as Council Member-At-Large in the city of Newark to continue to serve to improving the quality of life for the residents of Newark. Rev. Rountree has served and continues to commit her works of service to the advancement of the Newark community. She was appointed by Mayor Baraka to serve on the Commission of the Status of Women and the City of Newark’s Homeless Commission. She is a member of Women of Divine Destiny; a board member of My Sister’s Lighthouse; a board member of Got Vision, an executive member of Newark’s Senior Citizen Extravaganza Committee; honorary member of the Newark Anti-Violence Coalition and has worked many years as a senior citizen advocate and a community activist. She is also a lifelong member of the Newark National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
She has received countless acknowledgements and awards for her service to her community. At her home church, she currently serves as the Director of Church-Wide Programs, Assistant Director of the Youth Department, Assistant Director of VBS, Assistant Director of the Praise Dance Ministry, Youth Choir Advisor. She is also chair of the Scholarship Committee and a member of the Women’s Ministry. Rev. Rountree also served as interim secretary to the South Ward Clergy Alliance, and currently serves as chair and faith-based coordinator for the Newark Interfaith Alliance, and has served as administrative assistant to Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III in his position as the first Vice President for the General Baptist Convention of N.J. Inc. She created a nightly prayer call in March 2020 at the height of the pandemic that is still active today. Countless faith leaders and people from near and far call in nightly to stay unified as well as pray for the protection, peace and wellness of our humanity.
In 2015 Rev. Rountree formed a group called Mayor Baraka’s Sisters Inspiring Sisters where she and several other women from different backgrounds visit high schools, elementary schools and halfway houses to speak life, inspire, and encourage our sisters. She is the proud mother of Levar J. Scott and the doting grandmother to the beautiful Elani Aubre’ Scott. Rev. Rountree can always be found assisting and helping others and lives a life that is dedicated to pleasing God. “So therefore she will not be weary in well doing because she believes she will reap if she faint not.” Galatians 6:9
Learn more about Rev. Louise Scott-Rountree :
Instagram - @councilwomanrountree
