Fiftieth Anniversary THE JOHN D. O’BRYANT AFRICAN AMERICAN INSTITUTE
50th Anniversary Commemorative Edition
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Cover Image, Top: Project Ujima Students in Class at the Institute, 1979 (1) 2Cover Image, Bottom: MLK Fellows inside the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute, 2018 (2) Above: Flags in the African American Institute, 2018. (3)
Table TABLE OFof CONTENTS Contents 5 6 7 8 15 40 46
Director’s Message The 13 Demands Founders & Directors Calendar of Events Exhibit Guide Bibliography Staff
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Director’s DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE Message
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It is with great honor and humility that I share with you this commemorative book from the 50th Anniversary of the founding of the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute (JDOAAI) here at Northeastern University. Over the past 50 years, the Institute has played an integral role in Northeastern University’s history, growth, and success. From the day President Asa S. Knowles announced his support for the 13 Demands in 1968, the Institute has been committed to inspiring students toward excellence, success, and service to the Northeastern community, the African Diaspora, and the world. This book includes a snapshot of this rich history. We came together the fall of 2018, to celebrate the 50th year of the Institute and gather for a Black alumni reunion, but the recognition of this milestone represents so much more than just the Institute. The half a century of the Institute serving students is also about the presence of Black students on Richard O’Bryant (4)
campus and the university’s efforts to embrace an increasingly diverse student population and world. The week of inspiring activities and events was an effort to recognize the importance of our current students, while honoring the contributions of alumni who have shaped our campus and community. The students and alumni’s dedication and activism continue to make an impact on Northeastern’s progress and success and that of the African Diaspora. We had many exciting and wonderful events through-out the week of celebration of the African American presence and achievements on campus. The John D. O’Bryant African American Institute at Northeastern University was the place to be – meeting with old friends and making new ones. The experiences of alumni and current students and everyone’s on-going involvement at Northeastern will continue to inspire incoming students and their families, showing them how great Northeastern University can be. The week’s program truly celebrated African Americans and the cultural progress at Northeastern. We ask that everyone continue the conversations, engage the campus and share your experiences and ideas for the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute and Northeastern yesterday, today, and into the future. Thank you for your support and we are honored to have you continue this journey with us. Sincerely, Richard O’Bryant, PhD Director, John D. O’Bryant African American Institute
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13 Demands THE 13 DEMANDS
(1)
We demand new academic scholarships for Black students by September of 1968; and by 1971, we demand that at least 10 percent of the incoming freshman class be Black.
(2)
We demand that at least one course deals especially with Afro-American literature.
(3)
We demand a re-evaluation of all social science and humanities courses with the emphasis on Western civilization and freshman English concerning Black contributions to these areas.
(4)
We demand that representatives of the Black student body be members of any vehicle set up to reevaluate the courses.
(5)
We demand a re-evaluation of any summer orientation courses for Black students entering on scholarship, and that this program be open to all Black entering freshmen.
(6)
We demand that all minority group orientation courses for education majors be mandatory with emphasis on Black culture, economics, sociology and history. These would be open to all majors.
(7)
We demand a special fall orientation program for all entering Black students. It should be administered by Black students and financed by the university.
(8)
We demand a recruitment team made up of Black students from the university to recruit Black students into the university, financed by the university.
(9)
We demand that free courses be set up in the University College which would aid Black businessmen, with the emphasis of Business Administration.
(10)
We demand that a one-year college preparatory course be set up in the university for Black students planning to enter college who do not have a strong educational background.
(11)
We demand accredited African language and cultural courses, to be taught by Black personnel.
(12)
We demand an annual Black History Week, officially sanctioned and financed by Northeastern University.
(13)
We demand the formation of a committee of faculty, administrators, and Black students to institute, view and report on the university’s implementations of these demands.
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Founders FOUNDERS
We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the founders and individuals involved with the start of the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute 50 years ago. Our research has revealed there are founders of record and founders of involvement. They are not necessarily mutually exclusive, however, we will spend some time connecting with people from that time period, to compile a list of those names that are agreed should be listed as founders. We look forward to everyone’s input toward a comprehensive document that captures that history of the early years.
Directors DIRECTORS
Charles H. Turner
1969 - 1971
Ntozake Shange
1971
Gregory T. Ricks
1972 - 1976
Arthur Davis Jr.
1977
George A. Rowland
1977 - 1978
Verdaya Mitchell-Brown
1978 - 1979
Virgil Wood
1979 - 1982
Leslie F. Griffin Jr.
1983
John C. Norman, Director
1984 - 1986
James Keith Motley
1987 - 1992
Lula E. Petty Edwards
1993 - 2007
Richard O’Bryant
2007 - Present 7
Calendar CALENDAR OF EVENTS of Events Monday: November 5, 2018
Cultural Life on Campus 11:45am – 1:30pm • The Institute The history and future of cultural life on campus was dicussed from representatives at the Institute, the African American Studies Program, the Asian American Cultural Center, the LatinX Cultural Center and the Center for Intercultural Engagement. The event was moderated by Associate Dean Bob Jose and co-sponsored by NU Dream.
Tuesday: November 6, 2018
Luncheon: Today’s African American Studies Program with Special Guest Princeton Professor Eddie Glaude 11:45am – 1:30pm • The Institute Northeastern’s African American Studies Program and the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute were one entity in the early years. Since their inceptions, each entity has made an impact in a unique way. The history and the new direction of the African American Studies Program under the new leadership of its director and Professor Nicole Aljoe was shared.
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Wednesday: November 7, 2018
NU Prime and the Growth of NSBE on Campus 11:45am – 1:30pm • Visitors Center For many years, the College of Engineering has held “Engineering Wednesday” presentations and tours year-round, starting from the Visitor Center. NU Prime [Northeastern University Programs in Multicultural Engineering] hosted Northeastern’s Black engineering alumni to participate in this special “Engineering Wednesday.”
Community Conversation: The Legacy of John D. O’Bryant with Special Guest Colin “Topper” Carew 6:00pm – 8:00pm • The Institute
John D. O’Bryant, the first African American to be appointed a Vice President at Northeastern University, served in that capacity from 1979 until his passing in 1992. During that period, he oversaw the workings of the African American Institute and provided invaluable leadership in what were often difficult times. John served as President of the Boston School Committee, as national chairman of the Council of Urban Boards of Education and founded a number of local and statewide education advocacy groups. Although he gained national prominence in the field of education, John maintained his humility and sense of humanity. This gathering was an opportunity for all communities to discuss John O’Bryant’s legacy at Northeastern, throughout Boston and beyond.
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Thursday: November 8, 2018
50th Anniversary Timeline and Exhibit 11:45am – 1:30pm • The Institute The history of the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute is rich with student experiences, engagement, growth and opportunity. The 50th Anniversary Celebration was marked by a comprehensive exhibit of some of the events, people and important moments that helped to define the Institute’s place in Northeastern’s long history. The Institute’s founding was based in the early years of student protest and remains a consistent presence and strong contributor to Northeastern’s incredible progress and success over the years. Institute Director Richard O’Bryant and Program Assistant Simonne Ronk walked the guests through the exhibit and led a discussion of what has transpired over the years since the Institute’s founding.
Campus Tours 3:00pm – 4:00pm • The Institute Northeastern continues to evolve as a university and an award-winning urban campus. For many alumni who have not been on campus in many years, the physical changes will be very noticeable. Tours of campus were conducted to show how much the campus has changed and continues to change.
Welcome Ceremony with Special Guest Speaker former UMass Boston Chancellor Dr. J. Keith Motley 6:00pm – 8:00pm • The Institute The fall of 2018 represented the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute (JDOAAI) on Northeastern University’s campus. We celebrated the Institute’s rich history, highlighted the Black student presence on campus and held a dialogue about the Institute and the university’s future. This conversation was informed by the history and importance of the Institute. It emphasized how the Institute got started, its strong presence on campus and how Black students have contributed to the success of the Institute and Northeastern.
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Friday: November 9, 2018
Campus Tours 11:00am – 12:00pm • The Institute
Buffet Lunch 12:00pm – 1:30pm • The Institute
College Receptions 2:00pm – 3:30pm • The Institute College of Social Sciences and Humanities
College of Science
D’Amore-McKim School of Business
Bouvé College of Health Sciences
School of Law
College of Arts, Media and Design
College of Engineering
College of Computer and Information Science
College of Professional Studies
Campus Tours 3:00pm – 4:00pm • The Institute 50 Years of the John D. O’Bryant African America Institute: A Celebration 4:00pm – 6:00pm • ISEC Atrium Northeastern’s centerpiece event for the 50th Anniversary welcomed the entire Northeastern community. The event featured performances, speakers, light refreshments, and special guests.
Student and Alumni Reception 6:00pm – 9:00pm • The Institute The current leaders of Black student organizations hosted a special reception for Black alumni. This was an opportunity for students to connect and network with our alumni.
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Saturday: November 10, 2018
Institute Founders and Past Directors Brunch 10:00am – 11:30pm • The Institute Northeastern alumni were invited to a special welcome back brunch at the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute. This was an opportunity for the founders and past directors of the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute to return to the place they built 50 years ago, and discussed their original visions and the future of the Institute. Additionally, the current Institute director and staff discussed the Institute’s 2025 vision and roadmap for the future.
Legacy: JDOAAI 50th Anniversary Step Show Competition 12:00pm – 3:30pm • Blackman Auditorium Greek life has played an important role in the Black student experience on Northeastern’s campus over the years. One of the signature events for Greek Life is the “Step Show.” Co-sponsored by the Northeastern and regional chapters of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), the organizations represented and highlighted honored members for their impact on the Black community.
Reception for NU’s Black Alumni Athletes 4:30pm – 6:00pm • The Cabot Center Northeastern’s Black athletes have been the source of much of Northeastern’s sports programs’ excitement and success. Many of these athletes went on to have wonderful professional careers, and a select few went on to participate in the Olympics. Many of the athletes had not seen their teammates in many years. This was an opportunity to not only return to campus, but to the place, the Cabot Center, where much of their athletic foundation and success began.
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Continued, Saturday: November 10, 2018
An Evening with Wendy Williams Doors Open at 7:00pm • Blackman Auditorium Television host, actress, author, fashion designer and Northeastern alumna Wendy Williams discussed her life and success in the entertainment industry with her inimitable style and humor.
WRBB Reunion Party 9:00pm – Midnight • Curry Student Center WRBB, Northeastern University’s student radio station, was formed as WNEU in 1962, when a student group known as the Husky Hi-liters began broadcasting out of a small room in the basement of Ell Student Center. In 1970, the radio station moved to FM and changed its call letters to WRBB, the RBB standing for ‘Rock Back Bay.’ As a non-commercial station, it transmitted at 10 watts on 91.7 FM. In the 1980’s, WRBB became a powerful voice of Boston’s Black Community and was known as ‘Boston’s Spice.’ The call letters WRBB, later became known as ‘We Rock Boston Better!’
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Exhibit EXHIBIT GUIDE Guide Overview & Perspective
This 50th Anniversary Exhibition of the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute focuses upon pivotal, catalytic, and celebratory moments in history. The elements of the timeline are drawn from many primary and secondary documents, photographs and heavily from the press.
The newspapers employed are primarily the Onyx, but also the NU News and the Bay State Banner, spanning from 1965 to the present day. Â It is important to note that the vast majority of the literature employed for this exhibition was written primarily by Black scholars.
Left: Maya Angelou with Student and Institute Librarian, Verdaya Mitchell-Brown, 1978 (5)
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Protest PROTEST In late 1965, Stokely Carmichael, a leader in
change on campus. In the fall of 1966, these
the national Student Nonviolent Coordinating
students broke away to found the Afro-American
Committee, visited Boston and inspired the
Association (AAA). (7)
formation of a SNCC chapter at Northeastern University. Even though SNCC was extremely
Thursday night, February 8, 1968, eight members
influential nationally, there were students
of the South Carolina State Patrol fired shotguns
at Northeastern who did not feel that the
on the campus of South Carolina State University
organization’s philosophy would lead to
at Orangeburg, into a crowd of 150 students who protested against racial segregation at the town’s only bowling alley. (8) Three young men were slain, Samuel Hammond and Henry Smith, who were SCSU students, and high school senior, Delano Middleton. This is the first incident of sanctioned law enforcement officers perpetrating deadly violence on a college campus. (9) Subsequently, Roxbury marched in support of the students, to Post Office Sq. Boston, seven days later on February 15, 1968. (10)
Above: Stokely Carmichael Speaking at Civil Rights Rally (6) Right: The Orangeburg Massacre (11) Dead at the scene; Henry Smith, age 19, is on the left, Delano Middleton, age 17, on the right within the image. Both young men died at the Orangeburg Hospital shortly after arriving. Not pictured, Samuel Hammond Jr., age 18, the third fatal victim.
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Above: The Assassination of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (12)
The assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4, 1968, left a nation in mourning and devastation. Quickly, members of the Black Student Union organized with the Northeastern administration to honor Dr. King in a memorial service on Monday, April 8, 1968. (14) After the successful memorial service collabo-ration with the administration, Black students came together and planned their next steps for wise progress. Four days later, on April 12, 1968, Black students requested a meeting with the administration, through the NU News. Exactly three weeks later, five Black students Theresa Williams, William Hazelwood, Delano Farrar, Arnold (Ted) Evans and Ralph M. Peace Jr., presented President Asa Knowles a list of 13 Demands, on May 3, 1968. The aims of the 13 Demands centered upon equal access to universi-ty resources, increased enrollment of Black students and faculty, financial support and creating afro-centric programs and curricula.
Left: The 13 Demands (13)
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Presence PRESENCE President Knowles showed his support for the Black cause at NU, and quickly answered the students in a Memorandum supporting the aims of all 13 Demands only five days later.
The University is in sympathy with the objective implicit in your memorandum, namely, that of insuring full and fair treatment for members of the Black student community at Northeastern so that their status shall be the same as that of White Above: Memorandum: President Knowles Responds to the 13 Demands (15)
students. President Asa Knowles - May 7, 1968
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Right: Afro-American Institute Proposal Structure Diagram (18)
Research
Black Studies
Institute
Cultural Center
Library
Clearing House Special Programs
Through the Black Community Concerns Com-
Soon after, six students, James Alexander, Ralph
mittee, established as a result of Demand #13,
M. Peace Jr., James Fripp, Henry Roque, Freder-
many of the other demands were implemented
ick Johnson, and Arnold (Ted) Evans presented
such as the first Black Student Orientation Week
the Proposal to President Knowles on February
and Black Studies courses. Yet, more progress
14, 1969.
was needed. It became apparent to the leaders of the committee the existing institutional struc-
Again, President Knowles did not take long to
tures were not sensitive to Black student needs.
answer the students. Only five days later on
With this in mind, during the winter quarter of
February 19, 1969, he issued a response, agreeing
1969, Black students and administration formed a
to offer Black students more funding, admin-
committee to develop ideas around a Black Studies
istrative support, and finally a physical space
Department and/or an Afro-American Center. (16)
on-campus to administer services.
Left: Proposal for the Establishment of an Afro-American Culture Center and a Black Studies Department (17) Right: Response from President Knowles (19)
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19
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By the fall quarter, most of the staff had been hired and the Afro-American Institute was born. (21)
Left: The Afro-American Center at 104 Forsyth Street, 1969 (20)
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Progress PROGRESS As time passed, Institute programs expanded and new ones were created. By the end of the 1969-1970 school year, 7.7% of the freshman class was Black and they were taking advantage of all the Institute had to offer. (23) For this reason, during the summer of 1970, it was decided to move the Institute to 40 Leon Street. In April of 1971, the new Institute finally opened with one rule: It must be utilized by the Black folks on campus. (24) On May 1, 1993, the Institute was renamed in honor of the Vice President of Student Affairs, John D. O’Bryant, who suddenly passed away on July 3, 1992. At the ceremony, NU President John A. Curry delivered a powerful tribute saying: “Today, we dedicate the African American Institute at Northeastern University in the name of John D. O’Bryant. We do so not only to honor his legacy, but in recognition that not all of his goals were met, nor all his aspirations filled.” (26)
Top Left: Keith Motley Standing outside the African American Institute at 40 Leon Street with Students, c. 1990 (22) Bottom Left: John D. O’Bryant at his desk in the Northeastern Student Affairs Office, c. 1990 (25)
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Right: Student Protest Leaders Honored at the Unity & Awards Banquet, May 2001. (27)
In November of 2000, Northeastern President
Institute, 1993 - 2007. (29) Students organized
Richard Freeland announced a coming
and protested to save the Institute with a 30-
transformation to the campus stating, “Our
day occupation of the Institute and Protest
urban identity is a central element for our
March shutting down parts of Huntington
aspirations—to achieve excellence as a national
Avenue, in May 2001.
research university that is student-centered, practice-oriented, and urban.” (28) Unfortunately,
President Freeland heard the collective voice
these plans did not include the renovation of
of the Black student community. The John D.
the free-standing Institute. “For many students,
O’Bryant African American Institute would be
the Institute has actually been their ‘home away
retained, expanded and incorporated into the
from home,’ providing a sense of belonging and
new multifaceted facility to be constructed on
identity, cultural familiarity and role models,”
West campus.
stated Lula Petty-Edwards, the Director of the
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Left: Edward O. Owens Delivers Address at Opening Ceremony of the New John D. O’Bryant African American Institute, 2006 (31) Top: The outside facade of the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute, 2018 (32)
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In setting forth the exciting vision of a new home and strengthened programs for the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute, we celebrate the legacy of African Americans on this campus and across the country and the man who played an important role in the history of the university and the City of Boston. Northeastern President Richard Freeland, May 2001 (30)
On September 14, 2006, the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute opened its doors for its third incarnation within the West Village F Complex, still residing at 40 Leon Street. No matter what edifice the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute at Northeastern University may evolve into, its strength, beauty, courage, drive, and heart are constant and found within the people who call it home.
Simonne Ronk, MM, MLIS
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O’Bryant JOHN D. O’BRYANT Left: John Speaking to Children in his Neighborhood, c. 1976 (34) Below: John O’Bryant Meeting Coretta Scott King at Northeastern University, 1971 (35)
Above John O’Bryant at a Boston School Committee Meeting, c. 1977 (33)
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Right: Massachusetts State Senator Bill Owens, John D. O’Bryant and Boston’s NAACP President Thomas I. Atkins at a Community Meeting, c. 1977 (36)
If you’re not here to serve the students, you’re in the wrong place. John D. O’Bryant, Vice President of Student Affairs 1979-1992
John D. O’Bryant, the first African American to be appointed vice president at Northeastern University, served in that capacity from 1979 until his passing on July 3, 1992. During that period, he oversaw the workings of the African American Institute and provided invaluable leadership in what were often difficult times. John was born in Boston on July 15, 1931 and was educated in the Boston Public Schools. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Boston University. After serving in the U.S. Army, he worked as a teacher and a guidance counselor in the Boston public schools from 1955 to 1969. In 1969, he developed the Health Vocational Training Program at the Dimock Community Health Center and directed that program until he joined Northeastern as Associ-ate Dean of University Administration in 1978. In 1979, he was appointed Northeastern’s Vice President of Student Affairs. John served as President of the Boston School Committee, and as National Chairman of the Council of Urban Boards of Education and founded a number of local and statewide education advocacy groups. Although he gained national prominence in the field of education, John maintained his humility and sense of humanity. In 1992, John passed. His longtime staff described him as “A compassionate man who loved people; Unpretentious, never flaunting his status or influence; Always optimistic and re-minding others to ‘keep things in perspective;’ … A spiritual man who practiced his Christian beliefs.” At its 25th Anniversary in 1993, the African American Institute was renamed the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute. The City of Boston also renamed Boston Technical High School, where John was a guidance counselor and an assistant football coach, the John D. O’Bryant School of Mathematics and Science. A national organization was also started in his name, the John D. O’Bryant Think Tank for Black Professionals in Higher Education on Predominantly White Campuses (JDOTT). By naming the programs, buildings, and organizations in John’s honor we remember the legacy of a man whose love and guidance profoundly influenced countless lives. Richard O’Bryant, PhD
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Leadership LEADERSHIP Left: Apartheid Protest on the Steps of Ell Hall, November 1985 (37) Above: BLACK Leadership Program Working with then Boston City Councilor, now Congresswoman-elect Ayanna Pressley, March 2017 (38)
Left: Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm Speaking with Students at the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute, 1986 (39)
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Left: Members of the Legacy Mentoring & Leadership Program, 2017 (40)
The John D. O’Bryant African American Institute
established in honor and memory of Brutus
is committed to the holistic development of
“Skip” Wright, a founding member of Omicron
students, installing a sense of: service, community,
Chapter of Iota Phi Theta, Incorporated. The
academic excellence, entrepreneurship; and
scholarship recognizes students who have
an informed global consciousness. Our core
demonstrated citizenship, community service
leadership initiatives include:
and academic excellence while at Northeastern University.
Legacy Mentoring and Leadership Program (Legacy). Established in 1995, The John D. O’Bryant
Northeastern University Black Alumni
African American Institute’s Legacy Mentoring
Association (NUBAA) Scholarship. The John
and Leadership Program (Legacy) seeks to enhance
D. O’Bryant African American Institute
the retention rate, promote academic excellence,
collaborates with the Northeastern University
and encourage leadership skills, among students
Black Alumni Association (NUBAA) in
who identify with the African Diaspora. Legacy
administering and awarding these funds.
utilizes the expertise of Northeastern University’s
The NUBAA Scholarship recognizes students
students, faculty, and staff to provide first-year
who have demonstrated academic excellence,
students with mentoring, support and other
leadership, and community service.
resources needed to have a positive and successful experience at the University.
Black Leaders Accessing Consciousness Through Knowledge (BLACK). BLACK is a
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Graduate
program that seeks to provide students of the
Fellowship. The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,
African Diaspora with the opportunity
Graduate Fellowship provides six graduate student
to interact with some of Boston’s most
scholarships each year, covering full tuition and
prominent Black professionals. Co-sponsored
fees for the student’s graduate program. The
by the Institute and the Office of Institutional
program requires graduate students to be involved
Diversity and Inclusion, the program
in community service, represent the program at
includes off-campus site visits, professional
university and community events, and participate
development workshops and career planning
in the Graduate Students of Color Collective.
tailored to the emerging Black professional interested in acquiring skills to navigate and
Brutus “Skip” Wright III Memorial Scholarship
move up in the workplace.
Fund. The John D. O’Bryant African American Institute administers the Brutus “Skip” Wright III Memorial Scholarship Fund. The fund was
Nakeisha Cody, PhD
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Student STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS Organizations Without the presence of students, and the collective power of their organization, the Institute would not exist. It was the efforts of students in the 1960s and 2001 which cemented the John. D. O’Bryant African American Institute’s legacy on Northeastern’s campus.
Student Organizations Supported by the Institute, Past & Present Afro-American Association (AAA)
Latin American Student Organization (LASO)
Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA)
Minority Association of Pre-Health Students (MAPS)
Alpha Phi Alpha (ΑΦΑ)
National Association of Black Accountants (NABA)
Black Christian Fellowship (BCF)
Northeastern African Students Organization (NASO)
Black Engineering Students Society (BESS)
Northeastern Black MBA Association (NUBMBAA)
Black Law Student Association (BLSA)
Northeastern Black Student Association (NBSA)
Black Student Congress
Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ)
Black Student Union (BSU)
Onyx Informer (OI)
Brothers About Change (BAC)
Phi Beta Sigma (ΦΒΣ)
Cape Verdean Student Organization (CVSO)
Sigma Gamma Rho (ΣΓΡ)
Caribbean Student Organization (CSO)
Sisters In Solidarity (SIS)
Delta Sigma Theta (ΔΣΘ)
Society for Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
Fellowship & Manhood (FAM)
Somali Student Organization (SSO)
Graduate Students of Color Collective (GSCC)
Steppin’ On Another Level (SOAL)
Haitian Student Unity (HSU)
Students Against Institutional Discrimination (SAID)
Iota Phi Theta (ΙΦΘ)
Unity Gospel Choir (UGE)
Kappa Alpha Psi (ΚΑΨ)
Top Left: Step Show on the Quad., c. 1975 (41)
Center: The Black Student Congress, 1973 (43)
Top Right: “Hands up, Don’t Shoot” Michael Brown Protest March, September 2014 (42)
Bottom: Students with Flags of the African Diaspora on Centennial Common, c. 2008 (44)
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Ujima UJIMA The Ujima Global Leaders program is an
positive change in both our local and global
integral part of Northeastern University’s
communities. The overarching goals of the
commitment to maintaining a diverse
Ujima Global Leaders Program: create a
undergraduate student body. The Ujima
diverse cohort that provides students with
program grew out of a pre-freshman
the opportunity to connect, grow, and learn
orientation program established in 1969.
from students that have similar interests
Since its inception in the early 1970s, the
and passions; engage students in a variety
program has evolved. Project Ujima was
of educational pursuits—academic and
established in 1972, and in 1992 transformed
experiential at the university, in the local
into Ujima Scholars. Both of these
community, and throughout the world; guide
programs offered funding, and focused on
students through the diverse opportunities
strengthening the academic skill sets of the
for personal growth and development within
incoming freshmen students.
the Northeastern community; develop the leadership, communication, and teamwork
In 2014, the Ujima Scholars progressed
skills needed for success in the 21st Century;
to where it is today, the Ujima Global
and prepare the next generation of campus,
Leaders program. Ujima Global Leaders are
community, and industry leaders.
supported by a scholarship in recognition of their academic accomplishments and their potential to become agents for
Above: Ujima Global Leaders at the Greater Boston Food Bank Performing Community Service, August 2018 (45) Right: The 1989 Project Ujima Class (46)
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Nakeisha Cody, PhD
Above: Project Ujima Students in Class at the Institute, 1979 (48) Left: The 2009 Ujima Scholars Class (47)
The Ujima program has not only provided me with a community on campus, but also a lot of opportunities to get involved and make the most of my time here at Northeastern. Ultimately, the Ujima program is not just a scholarship, it is a way of life. Kasia Gibson Electrical Engineering, Class of 2019
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Onyx ONYX Founded in 1972, with deep roots from the 19681972 publication Panga Nyeusi, the Onyx Informer still publishes today, always amplifying the voice of the people from the African Diaspora, and marginalized communities.
Left: Panga Nyeusi Newsletter Cover from April 1971 (50) Middle: Onyx Cover, 2007 (59) Bottom Right: Onyx Staff, 1975 (55) Bottom Left: Panga Nyeusi Newsletter Header (51)
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The purpose of “Black Newspapers” is not to offer biased news coverage in turn, but to donate full coverage to those ‘newsworthy’ events that affect Black People. Ted Thomas | Editor-in-Chief, October 24, 1972 (57)
With the ratification of the 13 Demands only
came together and decided to issue another
three months earlier on May 7, 1968, the Afro-
African American publication entitled the Onyx
American Association (AAA) took the initiative
Informer. (53, 54)
and created a newsletter that would report on the implementation of the 13 Demands, as
At the height of the Onyx Informer’s popularity, it
well as current issues facing Black America.
was not uncommon to see the paper published
In September 1968, the first edition of Panga
twice a month. Throughout the years, the
Nyeusi was published. The AAA chose an apt
format evolved from newsprint to magazine.
name for their newsletter, Panga Nyeusi,
Due to low staffing levels at times, as well as
meaning Black Sword in Swahili. The concept
budget cuts, the paper later published only three
of the Black Sword is to cut through all the
issues per year. (58)
lies and irrelevancies that cloud the minds of Black people; for too long have we had to rely
In the 21st century, the Onyx Informer is always
on the White mass media for information.
accessible online, past and present. Today, the
(49) Throughout its entire publication 1968-
‘newspaper’ is a fully-accessible digital
1972, no topic was too taboo or delicate to
publication still delivering news and issues of
be approached. Student reporters held the
importance to communities of color. Through
Northeastern administration accountable if
a generous donation from Michael Frisby, BS
progress stalled on the vital work of bringing
Journalism ’77, all previously published physical
equal access to their education.
issues of the Onyx Informer have been digitized, and are freely accessible on the Internet Archive.
Black students were not for long without an information resource they could trust. Led by
Past, present and future forms of the Onyx
Robert Gittens ‘75, former members of Panga
Informer, have, do and always will amplify the
Nyeusi Ileen Dotson ‘74, Harold Hunte ‘76,
voices of individuals from the African Diaspora,
and Ted Thomas ‘74, along with Joyce Clark,
and marginalized communities. (60)
Barbara Ellis and Donna Deans, the group Simonne Ronk, MM, MLIS
35
35
Events SIGNATURE EVENTS Left: The First African American Institute Unity & Awards Banquet, 1973 (61) Right: The Dean Roland E. Latham Oratory Competition, 2003 (66)
Unity & Awards Banquet: In 1972, Gregory Ricks
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
took over the leadership of the Afro-American
Convocation: The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther
Institute and laid the foundation for many of its
King Jr., Convocation, created by the John
signature programs. The Unity & Awards Banquet
D. O’Bryant African American Institute, is
was designed to recognize and further encourage
consistently held in close proximity to the
those students who excelled academically and
birthday of Dr. King. The Northeastern University
contributed to the university’s African American
community and local community members
community. So, they established a ceremony to
attend as Northeastern commemorates the life
emphasize the message that unity comes as a
and legacy of Dr. King, especially his role as a
result of the work of those who strive for better
national and international champion of human
tomorrows. (62)
rights. In recent years, the President’s office has spearheaded the recognition for the university
Open House: To commemorate the opening of the
community, Boston and beyond.
new African American Institute at 40 Leon St., an
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Open House was held for the new building in April
Dean Roland E. Latham Oratory Competition:
1971. (64) That event began an annual tradition of
Named in honor of long-time African American
opening the Institute’s doors to expose all students
administrator and the first Director of Minority
to its programs, student organizations and diverse
Affairs, from 1967 to 1983, Roland Earle Latham
cultures of the African Diaspora.
was committed to instilling the quest for
Left: Dr. John S. Wilson Speaking at the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation, January 2009 (65) Middle: Kwanzaa Celebration, 2008 (68) Right: The John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Open House, 2009 (63) Bottom : Baccalaureate Ceremony featuring General Colin Powell, 2012 (70)
academic excellence in the students he served.
its creator Dr. Maulana Karenga, has become an
He came to Northeastern at a time when the
ideal forum for exploring and celebrating the
institution was a fledgling operation. During
survival of our African heritage. (69) We carry
his nearly 20 years, he was instrumental in
on this tradition each December, gathering and
helping Northeastern’s Black student population
celebrating the principles of Nguzo Saba, our rich
grow from 25, to 1200 students. All of this was
history and the ancestors who sacrificed greatly,
made possible by Dean Latham’s strength as
for our betterment and bright future.
an educational leader. In the spring semester of 1983, the 1st Dean Roland E. Latham Oratory
Baccalaureate Ceremony: The annual
Competition took place in celebration of Dean
Baccalaureate Ceremony continues to serve
Latham’s retirement. Thus began an annual
as an opportunity for students of color to
tribute to a true pioneer for students of color at
congregate for one final time before they
Northeastern University. (67)
transition from Northeastern University. It also gives the John D. O’Bryant African
Kwanzaa Celebration: The first Kwanzaa
American Institute staff a last opportunity to
celebration at the Institute was held in December
extend well-wishes to the graduating class and
1982. Neither a religious nor political holiday,
their families.
Kwanzaa is an outgrowth of many customs joined with ancient African practices. What began as a cultural idea and expression in the 1960’s by
Richard O’Bryant, PhD Simonne Ronk, MM, MLIS
37
National & NATIONAL & COMMUNITY Community PARTNERS The John D. O’Bryant African American
on Race and Ethnicity in American Higher
Institute has historically engaged with national
Education (NCORE). Students volunteer with
organizations and the community around
community partners that come to campus and/
Northeastern’s Boston campus. The Institute
or visit the Institute. Community members
is an active member of the Association of
often attend the Institute’s cultural programs.
Black Cultural Centers (ABCC). Additionally,
Groups like the Concerned Black Men of
the Institute maintains a strong relationship
Massachusetts (CBMM) and the Paul Robeson
with The John D. O’Bryant Think Tank for Black
Institute for Positive Self- Development (PRI),
Professionals (JDOTT), which hosts several
periodically meet in the Institute. Some of
programs at the annual National Conference
the national and community partners of the Institute include:
Left: The African American Master Artists in Residence gathered within the Cabral Center, 2008 (71) Below: The JDOTT Think Tank for Blacks in Higher Education Logo (74)
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Above: The Paul Robeson Institute at the African American Institute, 1989 (72) Left: The Association of Black Cultural Centers 25th Anniversary Convention Poster, 2015 (73)
The African American Master Artists in Residency Program (AAMARP) The Boston Network for Black Student Achievement (BNBSA)/Black Educators Alliance of Massachusetts (BEAM) The Concerned Black Men of Massachusetts, Incorporated (CBMM) The Paul Robeson Institute for Positive Self-Development (PRI) The John D. O’Bryant Think Tank for Black Professionals in Higher Education (JDOTT) The John D. O’Bryant School of Mathematics and Science The National Association of Black Cultural Centers (ABCC) The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) The Urban League Richard O’Bryant, PhD
39
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(6) Stokely Carmichael Speaking at Civil Rights Rally [Photograph]. (1970, April 12). Bettmann, Getty Images. (7) African American Activism and Experience at Northeastern, 1963-1978, Northeastern University Libraries
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(13) 13 Demands. (1968). Typescript, University Archives & Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
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(15) Knowles, A. (1968). President Knowles’s Response to the Thirteen Demands. Typescript, University Archives
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(16) Afro-American Institute Admissions Handbook. (c.1970). Typescript, University Archives & Special
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(17) Proposal for the Establishment of an Afro-American Culture Center and a Black Studies Department. (1969).
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(18) Figure 1. Afro-American Institute Proposal Structure Diagram. Adapted from Proposal for the
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John D. O’Bryant at his desk in the Northeastern Student Affairs Office [Photograph]. (c. 1990). John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(26) Dedication Ceremony of the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute [Pamphlet]. (1993). Boston, MA:
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(29) IBID. (30) Brown, D. (2001, May). NU Students Take Over Boston City Streets. The Onyx Informer. (31) Bailey, C. (2006, September 14). Edward O. Owens Delivers Address at Opening Ceremony of the New John D.
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(32) O’Neill, M. (2018). The Outside Facade of the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute [Photograph].
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(33) John D. O’Bryant at a Boston School Committee Meeting [Photograph]. (c. 1977). Private, Boston. (34) John Speaking to Children in his Neighborhood [Photograph]. (c. 1976). Private, Boston. (35) John D. O’Bryant Meeting Coretta Scott King at Northeastern University [Photograph]. (1971, June). Private, Boston.
(36) Massachusetts State Senator Bill Owens, John D. O’Bryant, and Boston’s NAACP President Thomas I. Atkins at
a Community Meeting [Photograph]. (c. 1977). Private, Boston.
(37) Levine, J. D. (1985, November 14). Apartheid Protest on the Steps of Ell Hall [Photograph]. John D. O’Bryant
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(38) BLACK Leadership Program Working with then Boston City Councilor, now Congresswoman-elect Ayanna Pressley [Photograph]. (2017, March 8). John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special
Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(39) Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm Speaking with Students at the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute
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[Photograph]. (1986). John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special Collections, Northeastern
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(40) Members of the Legacy Mentoring and Leadership Program [Photograph]. (2017, September 29). John D.
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(41) Step Show on the Quad. [Photograph]. (c. 1975). John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special
Collections Northeastern University, Boston.
(42) O’Bryant, R. (2014, September). The “Hands up, Don’t Shoot” Michael Brown Protest March [Photograph].
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(43) The Black Student Congress [Photograph]. (1973). John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special
Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(44) Bailey, C. (c. 2008). Students with Flags of the African Diaspora on Centennial Common [Photograph]. John
D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(45) The Ujima Global Leaders at the Greater Boston Food Bank Performing Community Service [Photograph].
(2018, August 28). John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special Collections, Northeastern
University, Boston.
(46) The 1989 Project Ujima Class [Photograph]. (1989). John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special
Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(47) The 2009 Ujima Scholars Class [Photograph]. (2009). John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special
Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(48) Project Ujima Students in Class at the Institute [Photograph]. (1979). John D. O’Bryant African American
Institute Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(49) Davis, L., & Adeeb, H. (n.d.). Editorial. Panga Nyeusi, V.4, No. 1, 7-8. (50) Ronk, S. (2018, October). Panga Nyeusi Newsletter Cover from April 1971 [Photograph]. John D. O’Bryant
African American Institute Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(51) Ronk, S. (2018, October). Panga Nyeusi Newsletter Header [Photograph]. John D. O’Bryant African
American Institute Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(52) Davis, L., & Adeeb, H. (1971). Editorial. Panga Nyeusi, V.4, No. 1. (53) African American Activism and Experience at Northeastern, 1963-1978, Northeastern University Libraries
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(54) Downing, C. (1998, February/March). In the Beginning... The Onyx Informer 25th Anniversary Edition. (55) Levine, J. D. (c. 1975). The Onyx Staff [Photograph]. John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special
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(56) Jean-Francois, A., & Casimir, A. (2001, January). Letter from the Editors. The Onyx Informer. (57) Downing, C. (1998, February/March). In the Beginning... The Onyx Informer 25th Anniversary Edition. (58) IBID. (59) Ronk, S. (2018, October). The Onyx Informer, February - March 2007 Cover [Photograph]. John D. O’Bryant
African American Institute Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(60) About. (2018, September 12). Retrieved October 14, 2018, from https://thenuonyx.wordpress.com/about/. (61) The First African American Institute Unity & Awards Banquet [Photograph]. (1972, June). John D. O’Bryant
African American Institute Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(62) African American Activism and Experience at Northeastern, 1963-1978, Northeastern University Libraries
online exhibition. Boston: Northeastern University Libraries, 2005.
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(63) The John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Open House [Photograph]. (2009, September). John D.
O’Bryant African American Institute Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(64) Sneed, P. (1976, April). History of the ‘Tute’ (third of a four part series). The Onyx. (65) Bailey, C. (2009, January 14). Dr. John S. Wilson Speaking at the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation [Photograph]. John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special Collections,
Northeastern University, Boston.
(66) The Dean Roland E. Latham Oratory Competition [Photograph]. (2003). John D. O’Bryant African American
Institute Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(67) The 34th Annual Dean Roland Earl Latham Oratory Competition [Pamphlet]. (n.d.). Boston, MA: The John
D. O’Bryant African American Institute.
(68) Bailey, C. (2008, December 5). Kwanzaa Celebration [Photograph]. John D. O’Bryant African American
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Institute Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(69) James, A. (1991). African American Holidays: A historical research and resource guide to cultural celebrations.
Chicago: Popular Truth.
(70) Bailey, C. (2012, May). Baccalaureate Ceremony featuring General Colin Powell [Photograph]. John D.
O’Bryant African American Institute Special Collections, Northeastern University, Boston.
(71) Camera, K. (2008). The African American Master Artists in Residence gathered within the Cabral Center
[Photograph]. John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special Collections, Northeastern
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(72) MiddleBrooks, S. (1989). The 1989 Paul Robeson Institute at the African American Institute [Photograph].
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(73) Saint-Dick, G. (2015, November). 25 Years of ABCC [The Association of Black Cultural Centers 25th
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(74) JDOTT Think Tank for Blacks in Higher Education [Organization’s Logo]. (n.d.). (75) Saint-Dick, G. (2018, September). 50th Anniversary Celebration Logo [The John D. O’Bryant African
American Institute, Boston].
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Staff
STAFF OF THE JOHN D. O’BRYANT AFRICAN AMERICAN INSTITUTE Richard L. O’Bryant, PhD Director Nakeisha Cody, PhD Associate Director Student Development and Global Engagement Deborah Mauristhene, MSPM, MS Program Manager Student Outreach and Communications Rodney Sadberry, MEd Student Outreach and Communications Coordinator Keith Allyn Motley, BS Programs Events & Operations Coordinator Simonne Ronk, MM, MLIS Program Assistant | Academic Advancement
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Exhibition Guidebook Copyright This guidebook is © by Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts. Excerpts from the book may be reproduced for non-commercial, educational use only, except where limited by other copyrights. Illustrations and Reproductions Northeastern University holds the copyrights for some (but not all) of the illustrations and textual images. If you are interested in reproducing items, please contact the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute Special Collections. As with all copyrighted material, “fair use” guidelines of the applicable copyright laws may apply to educational or other non-commercial uses. Original Contributions The narrative prose written especially for this exhibition guidebook is copyrighted by Northeastern University. Portions of these texts may be quoted or excerpted for non-commercial, educational purposes, provided that such quotes are accurate and proper attribution is given.
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“
Success is measured by the number of people successful as a result of your success. John D. O’Bryant NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY VICE PRESIDENT OF STUDENT AFFAIRS, 1979 - 1992.
(75)