Mary S. Peake was a free Black woman who bravely taught enslaved children and later Contraband children under the Emancipation Oak, even before the formal establishment of Hampton Institute, her foundational efforts in education are the very roots of Hampton University, representing an enduring legacy of commitment to learning.
Kweisi Mfume is a United States Congressman and the former NAACP President and CEO, he is a prominent voice in civil rights and social justice. His leadership and advocacy provided students with a direct connection to ongoing struggles for equality and strategies for social change.
Audre Lorde, a prominent writer, feminist, and civil rights activist known for her powerful poetry and essays, her visits stimulated critical discussions on intersectionality, identity, and social justice, deeply influencing the intellectual climate of the campus.
Jesse Jackson is a renowned civil rights activist and minister, and a prominent figure in American politics, his powerful speeches on campus galvanized students and faculty, stirring a sense of civic duty and social justice.
Medgar Evers was a pivotal Civil Rights Movement leader, his life and work serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for civil rights, directly influencing the social justice consciousness of the Hampton community.
James A. Fields was born enslaved, he escaped during the Civil War, became a lawyer, and held public office. His remarkable journey from enslavement to a position of influence exemplifies the transformative power of education championed by Hampton University.
The Contrabands (Frank Baker, Shepard Mallory, James Townsend) were three enslaved men who sought asylum at Fort Monroe early in the Civil War, leading to the “contraband of war” designation, their courageous act directly led to the establishment of the school under the Emancipation Oak, making their legacy the very foundation of Hampton University.
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Frederick Douglass was an iconic abolitionist, orator, and statesman, his visits to Hampton University (then Hampton Institute) were significant, as he was a powerful voice for civil rights and education, aligning with Hampton’s mission and inspiring generations of students to pursue freedom and knowledge.
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Debbye Turner is a veterinarian and former Miss America, her achievements in both science and public representation provided an inspiring example of diverse talents and professional pathways for students.
Jessie M. Rattley, a pioneering politician and community leader, she was the first African American woman to serve as mayor of Newport News, Virginia. For many years she also served as a professor in Hampton University’s Department of Political Science. Her political achievements served as a powerful example of breaking barriers and dedicated public service
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L. Douglas Wilder was the first African American Governor of Virginia, his historic election and leadership provided an immense source of pride and inspiration to the Hampton University community, symbolizing progress in political representation.
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Mark Warner is a prominent United States Senator and the former Governor of Virginia, his visits provided students with direct exposure to national political figures and engaged them in discussions about federal policy and governance.