The University Archives Sesquicentennial Speakers Series, in collaboration with the Department of History and with support from the University Library, showcases historical scholarship inspired by records found in the University of Illinois Archives.

As early as the late 1880s, African American students enrolled at the University of Illinois. By the turn of the century, black student numbers continued to increase, although in small increments. Professors Tamara Hoff and Vanessa Rouillon share their research on African American experience in these earliest years on campus and in the Champaign-Urbana community. They illustrate how these students organized, networked and supported one another through social organizations (such as Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.) and through the local community’s educational and social outlets (specifically, the Bethel AME Church).

Exhibits and refreshments will be provided.

Opening remarks by Chancellor Robert J. Jones.

To learn more, visit https://archives.library.illinois.edu/150/.