Langston University, located in Langston, Oklahoma, holds a storied legacy as Oklahoma's only historically Black college or university (HBCU), founded in 1897. Its alumni have made significant contributions across diverse fields such as politics, education, science, and business, shaping communities and inspiring future generations both locally and globally. The university's commitment to excellence and empowerment has produced leaders who continue to break barriers and drive progress in their respective industries.
Notable Alumni:
- Ada Lois Sipuel Fisher - Pioneering civil rights activist who challenged segregation in education, leading to landmark legal victories.
- Clara Luper - Influential civil rights leader known for organizing sit-ins to desegregate public spaces in Oklahoma.
- Edward P. McCabe - Early advocate for African American settlement in Oklahoma, shaping political and social landscapes.
- Marques Haynes - Basketball legend and Harlem Globetrotter, renowned for his extraordinary dribbling skills and showmanship.
- Dr. Nathan Hare - Sociologist and activist, credited with founding the first Black Studies program in the U.S.
- Dr. Melvin B. Tolson - Esteemed poet and educator, whose debate team inspired the film The Great Debaters.
- Edwin P. McCabe - Businessman and politician who played a key role in early African American governance in Oklahoma.
- Dr. Ernest Holloway - Long-serving president of Langston University, advancing educational opportunities for minority students.
- Helen G. Edmonds - Historian and educator, first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. at Ohio State University.
- John Hope Franklin - Renowned historian and author, whose work on African American history reshaped academic discourse.
Famous People Who Attended Langston University:
- Bessie Coleman - First African American female pilot, breaking barriers in aviation history.
- Charlie Wilson - Grammy-nominated R&B singer and former lead vocalist of The Gap Band.
- Thomas "Hollywood" Henderson - NFL linebacker and Super Bowl champion with the Dallas Cowboys.
- Jennifer Hudson - Academy Award-winning actress and singer, known for Dreamgirls.
- Maurice Cheeks - NBA Hall of Fame point guard and championship-winning coach.
The impact of Langston University alumni resonates far beyond Oklahoma, influencing civil rights, education, entertainment, and sports on a global scale. From trailblazers like Ada Lois Sipuel Fisher, who fought for equality, to cultural icons like Charlie Wilson, whose music inspires millions, these individuals exemplify the university's mission of fostering leadership and innovation. While specific alumni data may be limited in some areas, further details can be explored through trusted sources such as the university's official website at www.langston.edu.
