A panel of integration forerunners spoke to the Winthrop community about their experiences as African American students and staff during the height of racial tension 50 years ago.
In 1964, Winthrop University admitted Dr. Cynthia Roddey and Delores Johnson Hurt as the first black graduate and undergraduate students. Six years later, the first black librarians, Ellen Owens and Dorothy Barber, were hired and began their 44-year career at Winthrop.
All four panelists agreed that although they did not initially choose Winthrop, they are now thankful that they did.
“Studying at Winthrop allowed me to go on to Columbia University to study journalism in New York,” Hurt said.
“We didn’t come in trying to be the first of anything, we just wanted a job,” Owens said. “We got a job that was good to us and good for us.”
A large amount of students turned out at the event to gain insight on what Winthrop was like 50 years ago.
“I have a passion for African American history, especially at the institution I attend,” said Winthrop student Jay Greathouse. “I expect to get knowledge about the struggle they endured and how they paved the way.”
According to the panelists, Winthrop’s integration was somewhat peaceful in comparison to other parts of the South.
While it may have been peaceful, they still felt isolated from their white peers.
“I couldn’t help but shed a few tears because I was alone,” Hurt said.
Towards the end of the luncheon, students had the opportunity to further question the ladies.
“How would you want African American students to carry themselves at Winthrop today,” asked student body vice president Jarvais Jackson.
Hurt said she wanted African American students to enjoy themselves and become more involved on campus.
“The door has been opened, all [students] have to do is just walk through the door,” Barber said.
“We have to set the bar higher, not only here at home but all over the world,” Roddey said.
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