Attending a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) can be a rewarding experience that challenges you to become your best self. Benjamin E. Mays, longtime president of Morehouse College, once said, "Morehouse holds a crown over the heads of her students that she challenges them to grow tall enough to wear!" For students attending one of the 107 HBCUs across the United States, the same belief can be held for their universities.

Thurgood Marshall, our nation's first Black Supreme Court Justice, is a 2x product of receiving an HBCU education. He first received his undergraduate degree from Lincoln University in 1930 and his law degree from Howard University in 1933. His HBCU experience and more is the focus of the newly released film, Becoming Thurgood: America's Social Architect.

On October 23rd, GPB partnered with Albany State University and their student clubs to host a screening of the film followed by a panel that featured some of Albany's greatest residents. Attendants had the opportunity to hear from an original Freedom Singer, Ms. Rutha Mae Harris, retired chief superior court judge of the Dougherty Circuit of Georgia, Willie E. Lockette, and local historian and anthropologist Michael Harper. They were able to not only describe firsthand accounts of the Civil Rights Movement in Albany, but were also able to provide insight into the progress that has been made since then. 

This picture shows a group of 5 people smiling for a picture.

Mar'kaya Artist, Judge Willie E. Lockette, Rutha Mae Harris, Michael Harper, and Christian Stegall pose for a picture

This event was part of the HBCU Week Now national initiative, spearheaded by Maryland Public Television (MPT). HBCU Week Now serves as a premier destination for in-depth coverage of the nation’s 107 HBCUs, highlighting the achievements, stories, and contributions of students, alumni, faculty, and staff. This event was truly enriching, helping connect past generations with younger generations. The future truly is bright!