Since its first African American student stepped foot on campus in 1966, Reinhardt University has felt pride in its diverse student body. Sixty years ago, James “Jay” Jordan (RU-1968) bravely enrolled at the college, changing the student culture and institutional history. He became active on campus, was welcomed into the Omega Kappa Pi fraternity and the Haygood Literary Society, and served on the Student Government Association. By the early 1970s, a Black Students Society was formed of both men and women.
Today, 43 percent of Reinhardt students are non-white, including over 22 percent African American. Throughout the month of February, Reinhardt celebrates Black History Month to honor the achievements, stories, and enduring impact of Black leaders, creators, and communities. The events educate, inspire, and bring people of all backgrounds together.
Tonight, Friday, February 20, 2026, students from Reinhardt’s School of the Arts participate in a free concert titled “Let Us March On.” It honors the voices and artistic traditions that shaped Black culture across generations.
Students are also enjoying movie nights, based on compelling real-life stories: Pride portrays the formation of an all-black swim team to combat racism, while Hidden Figures, which will be shown on February 27, depicts the three brilliant African-American women at NASA behind the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit during the Space Race.
African American genealogist Dr. Dorothy Wofford Witherspoon spoke to students and employees on finding your roots and tracing enslaved ancestry. Upcoming speaking engagements include author Amber Jones, who on February 23 will share insights and the impact of a career in the nonprofit sector, as well as successful leadership traits. On February 25, W. Jeff Bishop, Executive Director of the Funk Heritage Center and Bennett History Museum, will speak on the forgotten lore of Georgia and explores stories of the earliest Black inhabitants.
Through remembrance, celebration, and continued commitment to inclusion, Reinhardt University honors its past while inspiring future generations to learn from it, build upon it, and march forward together.
– By Suzy Alstrin
