Gateways Music Festival Orchestra makes Carnegie debut
The Gateways Orchestra, which appeared as part of the 2021–22 season, was the first all-Black classical symphony orchestra presented by Carnegie Hall in its history.
Blinded in an accident, guitar student finds community at Eastman
Eshaan Sood ’25, a first-year jazz guitar student at Eastman blinded in an accident in 2015, finds support and community among his teachers and peers.
Douglass Leadership House celebrates 10th anniversary
For ten years, the Douglass Leadership House on the River Campus has served as a symbol of—and space for—Black excellence, persistence, and fortitude.
Frederick Douglass Medal to be presented to Northwestern’s dean of communication
E. Patrick Johnson is recognized for contributions to engaged scholarship and public performance.
Awards celebrate community diversity and inclusion efforts
The recently redesigned Presidential Stronger as One Diversity Awards honor the breadth of excellence within and beyond the University of Rochester community.
Beatrice Howard: The first African American woman to graduate from Rochester
Beatrice Amaza Howard earned two degrees at the University of Rochester before beginning a career as a public school teacher.
Susan B. Anthony: A life and legacy entwined with Rochester
February 15 marks the birthday of American civil rights and social justice leader Susan B. Anthony. Today, the University of Rochester is a collector, curator, and steward of her legacy.
Charles Augustus Thompson, Class of 1891
Charles Augustus Thompson is believed to be the first African American graduate of the University. While a student at Rochester, he immersed himself in a mix of science (physics, chemistry, physiology) and liberal arts (Roman law, rhetoric, and four languages).
Rheeda Walker, expert on Black mental health, to deliver University’s 2022 MLK address
The University of Houston professor will discuss mental health challenges facing African Americans and take questions from the audience during her January 21 address.
Eastman School of Music alumnus William Warfield honored with sculpture
A bust of singer, actor, and activist William Warfield ’43E, ’46E (MM), ’88 (Honorary) has been installed at the Miller Center Courtyard across from the Eastman School of Music in downtown Rochester, New York. “We are proud to partner with the William Warfield Scholarship Fund and to display this remarkable sculpture by artist Shawn Dunwoody, honoring Mr. Warfield’s legacy to our Eastman community, as well as to Rochester and the world,” says Jamal Rossi, Joan and Martin Messinger Dean of the Eastman School. Learn more about the sculpture and commemorative plaque. (University of Rochester photo / J. Adam Fenster)