Where we are today is a reflection of those who came before. For nearly 150 years, Black students have been shaping the Mount Holyoke we know. While acknowledging the struggles, this exhibit highlights the milestones that brought us to today. The history and legacy of the Black community at Mount Holyoke is rich and multifaceted, marked by the leadership, community, activism, and achievement that defines a Mount Holyoke education.
In 2023, we are celebrating the inauguration of the first permanent Black president of Mount Holyoke. This is a huge milestone and there have been many moments along the way that led to this occasion. There is a long rich history of Black life and leadership at Mount Holyoke with impressive accomplishments by students, alums, faculty, and staff, who have made invaluable contributions to both Mount Holyoke and to the greater world. Each new generation of students have built on the work and legacy of past generations, demonstrating the power of student collectivity, the importance of community, and necessity of education at the College and beyond so that Mount Holyoke can be at its best.
Credits
This exhibit was curated by Sarah Lancaster ’22, Archives Assistant. Online adaptation by Tracey Kry ’04, Digital Collections Archivist.