From slave to scholar
By Laura Good | February 28, 2002It's not the first story they'll tell. It's not a story told very often. It's the story of black students, leaders and community members and the role they have played in shaping the University's history. The typical University Guide Service tour focuses on the inspiring architecture, the student leadership and the man who began it all, Mr. Jefferson. The accounts heard predominately focus on the role of white males in the founding and development of the University, rarely discussing the historical role played by blacks. Finally, some questions have been answered. This past weekend, UGS gave a tour entitled "From Slave to Scholar." Guides narrated the tales of many blacks at the University and their struggle for equality. Erin-Marie Burke, a third-year College student and a member of UGS, came up with the idea for the tour several weeks ago, after hearing Carl Mack speak at the University in celebration of Black History Month. "He kept saying this one quote," Burke said.
