I’ve been a quiet observer for many years. As a young child, I attended Douglass High School until integration changed the course of my education. Douglass was the school I had always dreamed of graduating from—it was a meaningful and formative part of my life.

Years later, I was blessed with the opportunity to reconnect with Douglass High and fulfill that dream. In August 2007, I earned my school equivalency certificate and proudly walked the stage as a Douglass graduate. That moment was the completion of a long-held goal—but also the beginning of something even greater.

My dream continues with the opening of Douglass Diner. This marks a new chapter for the Columbia, MO community and lays the foundation for the growth and success of Black-owned businesses. From my life experience, I’ve learned that we may not own the past, but we can shape the future. Douglass Diner is just the beginning.

This effort depends on all of us working together. The employees of Douglass Diner will play a vital role—they will be the heart and driving force behind its success. Proceeds from the diner will be reinvested into the community: providing scholarships, acquiring land, supporting other businesses, and contributing to long-term community development.

Ownership—of land, of businesses, of our future—is the lock and key to lasting growth.

Bill Coats