Anthropologist taps Sun City Anthem

Leaving familiar surroundings is always a challenge. No one knows that more than anthropologist Doris Bright, who left her home in Ellicott City, Md., for the Sun City Anthem age-qualified community in Henderson.

"I was looking for a lifestyle that would keep me happy and active," she said. "I had read an article about Del Webb and investigated for three years to make sure this is what I wanted to do."

Research is not new to Bright. Her expertise is multidisciplined in anthropology, sociology and traditional African religions. Bright's career began as a secondary educator, teaching English, social studies, and corrective and remedial reading.

While teaching, she received a sabbatical funded by the board of education in Baltimore to go to Africa. At the University of Ghana, Bright studied anthropology, "the love of my life," she said. After she retired from the school system, Bright earned master's and doctorate degrees, received a post doctoral fellowship, and taught at several colleges, including the University of Missouri, the University of Memphis, Howard University and Union University.

"Every ethnic group has traditional values," she said. "The nature of my research for the past several years has been exploring the values of traditional religious and spiritual practices in a universal context. I have a fulfilling life with my research and writing, and will be publishing a book soon. I live my life the way I want to live it."

She said she is happy with her decision to purchase the Liberty model.

"It is spacious, and the fireplace can be seen from both the family room and living room. Here, I have a bright, sunny office for writing and revising my research," she said, adding that her latest project is designing the desert landscape for her new home.

Bright also enjoys spending time at Anthem Center. The 77,363-square-foot facility offers fitness, social and recreational opportunities for residents, including tennis courts, walking trails and bocce courts.

"While I was in France on an independent research grant from the National Institute on Humanities, I noticed bocce," Bright said. "I want to learn that game."

She also has joined the Authors Club and the Book Club, and plans to join some card clubs.

Twelve models are available, ranging from 1,496 to 3,175 square feet and priced from the low $200,000s to more than $500,000.

To visit, take Eastern Avenue south, two miles past St. Rose Parkway, turn left on Anthem Parkway and then turn right on Alexandria Drive.

The model-home complex is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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