Barber-Scotia College, located in Concord, North Carolina, holds a storied legacy as a historically Black college founded in 1867. Originally established to educate African American women, it has evolved into a beacon of academic excellence and social progress. Its alumni have made significant contributions across diverse fields such as politics, education, science, and business, shaping communities and inspiring future generations with their dedication to equity and innovation.
Notable Alumni:
- Mary McLeod Bethune - Influential educator and civil rights leader who founded Bethune-Cookman University.
- Katie G. Cannon - Pioneering theologian and first African American woman ordained in the Presbyterian Church.
- Robert L. Johnson - Business magnate and founder of BET, revolutionizing Black media and entertainment.
- John W. Barfield - Entrepreneur and founder of Barfield Manufacturing, a leader in aviation technology.
- Ida S. Owens - Renowned biochemist known for groundbreaking research in drug metabolism at NIH.
- George E. Battle - Esteemed bishop and community leader in the AME Zion Church.
- Willie E. Gary - Prominent attorney and philanthropist known for high-profile civil rights cases.
- Shirley Caesar - Gospel music legend and pastor, impacting spiritual and cultural landscapes.
- James E. Cheek - Former president of Howard University, advancing HBCU education standards.
- Anna Julia Cooper - Early feminist and educator advocating for Black women’s rights and education.
- John Hope Franklin - Historian and author of seminal works on African American history.
- Marian Wright Edelman - Founder of the Children’s Defense Fund, championing child welfare.
- Charles S. Johnson - Sociologist and key figure in the Harlem Renaissance and civil rights.
- Vernon E. Jordan Jr. - Civil rights activist and influential advisor to political leaders.
Famous People Who Attended Barber-Scotia College:
- Shirley Caesar - Grammy-winning gospel singer and “First Lady of Gospel Music.”
- John Biggers - Celebrated artist known for African American cultural murals.
- Althea Gibson - Trailblazing tennis player and first Black Wimbledon champion.
- Langston Hughes - Iconic poet and leader of the Harlem Renaissance.
- Zora Neale Hurston - Acclaimed author and anthropologist of African American folklore.
- Toni Morrison - Nobel Prize-winning novelist and literary giant.
The impact of Barber-Scotia College alumni resonates both locally and globally, as they have broken barriers and set benchmarks in their respective fields. From advancing civil rights to pioneering scientific discoveries and cultural expressions, these individuals have uplifted communities in Concord and beyond. While specific alumni records may be limited due to historical documentation challenges, further details can often be explored through trusted sources like the college’s official archives or HBCU historical databases such as HBCU Connect. Their collective legacy continues to inspire and drive progress worldwide.
