Black History Month: A Spartan Celebration
Black History Month: A Spartan Celebration
January 21, 2025
Black alums, students, faculty and staff have continually enriched the MSU community with novel ideas, groundbreaking action and devoted leadership. Read on for some of the many stories, podcasts and news events in our collection that celebrate the voices and experiences of Black Spartans.
To learn about hoe you can make an impact for Black Spartans, visit https://givingto.msu.edu/black-history-month.cfm
Ernest Green, ’62, M.A. ’64, learned change was possible during the Civil Right Movement as a member of the Little Rock Nine. At MSU, he gained the confidence and know-how to rally collective action.
Current student Ariel Downs knows firsthand: Generosity helps Spartans thrive and build community at MSU.
A TRAILBLAZER IN HIGHER EDUCATION AND BEYOND
Clifton Wharton, president of MSU from 1970 to 1978 and namesake of Michigan’s largest performing arts center, died in November. But his legacy continues, on campus and off.
CONTINUOUS GENEROSITY AND UNCONDITIONAL LOVE
Dedicated donor Ronald Moore, ’75, supports several student communities including the MSU Black Alumni Detroit Scholarship, the Unconditional Love Fund and the Pride Endowment Scholarship Fund.
PROFESSOR AND JAZZ ICON ELECTED TO AMERICAN ACADEMY OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Rodney Whitaker, University Distinguished Professor of Jazz Bass and director of Jazz Studies in the College of Music, is among the class of new members elected to the prestigious honorary society.
Through her nonprofit, Jackets for Jobs, Alison Vaughn, ’99, is helping build up the Detroit workforce, one outfit at a time.
DIVERSITY RESEARCH NETWORK IS STRONG THANKS TO DONOR SUPPORT
Yearly fundraising campaigns, including one taking place this month, help fund the DRN's workshops, networking opportunities and grant programs.
MAGIC JOHNSON RECEIVES PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM
In January, MSU’s own Magic Johnson was awarded the nation’s highest civilian honor for his impact on and off the court.
OUTREACH HELPS MICHIGAN COMMUNITIES THRIVE
Drector of University Outreach Kwesi Brookins and Director of MSU Extension Quentin Tyler talk about serving all of Michigan’s 83 counties through a combination of outreach, engagement and extension.
Damien Crutcher, '90, is leading the mission to build "purpose-driven lives" by putting an instrument in the hands of every child in Detroit.
Provost and vice president for academic affairs at the International University of Grand-Bassam in Côte d’Ivoire, DeBrenna Agbényiga, ’99, ’05, ’14, is living out the dreams of her ancestors.
THE SPARTAN ATHLETE HELPING SPARTAN ATHLETES
Former Spartan football captain and linebacker Darien Harris, ’15, talks business development and NIL for Spartan athletes with Russ White on MSU Today.
