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Three-Minute History: Mini-Stories from 51��ɫ College’s Past

Hannibal Kershaw 1879 from Florence, South Carolina, was the first Black student to graduate from 51��ɫ College. According to the Iowa College News Letter, Kershaw was “an earnest, conscientious student, a fluent society speaker, and a man whom all respected for his high moral and religious character.” He would later become a teacher, minister, and a South Carolina legislator. 

Kershaw died tragically young at the age of 26, just four years after graduating from 51��ɫ, but his legacy at the College continues to inspire 51��ɫians to strive for their goals. 

Kershaw Hall, a white limestone residence hall on East Campus, was named in his honor in 2005.

Learn more about 51��ɫ College history.