Niara Sudarkasa facts for kids

Niara Sudarkasa (born August 14, 1938 – died May 31, 2019) was an amazing American scholar and teacher. She was an expert in African studies and anthropology, which is the study of human societies and cultures. She received many special honors, including thirteen honorary degrees and almost 100 awards for her work.

In 1989, Essence magazine called her the "Educator for the '90s." Later, in 2001, she made history. She became the first African American to be named a Chief in the ancient Ife Kingdom of the Yoruba people in Nigeria.

Early Life and Education

Niara Sudarkasa was born Gloria Albertha Marshall on August 14, 1938. Her birthplace was Fort Lauderdale, Florida. From a young age, Niara was a very smart student. She was so bright that she skipped several grades in elementary school.

She finished high school early and was accepted into Fisk University. She was only 15 years old at the time and received a scholarship from the Ford Foundation. Later, she transferred to Oberlin College. She earned her Bachelor's Degree from Oberlin in 1957.

Niara then went on to get her master's degree in anthropology from Columbia University. While she was working on her Ph.D. (a very high degree), she also taught at Columbia. In 1964, she earned her Ph.D.. This made her the first African-American woman to teach at Columbia University.

A Pioneer in Academia

After earning her Ph.D., Dr. Sudarkasa continued to break barriers. She was appointed as an assistant professor of anthropology at New York University. She was the first Black woman to hold this position there.

In 1969, she joined the Department of Anthropology at the University of Michigan. Again, she was the first African American to be appointed to that department. While at Michigan, she became very involved in important issues. These included civil rights and student concerns.

In 1986, Dr. Sudarkasa left the University of Michigan. She then became the first woman to serve as president of Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. This was another major achievement in her career.

Leading Lincoln University

During Dr. Sudarkasa's time as president of Lincoln University, the school saw many improvements. The number of students attending the university grew. She also worked to make the undergraduate and international programs stronger.

She started an important effort to recruit more minority students. This showed her dedication to making education available to everyone. After some challenges at the university, she decided to step down from her role.

Later Life and Legacy

Niara Sudarkasa continued her important work after leaving Lincoln University. She became a Distinguished Scholar-in-Residence. This role was at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

She also served on the board of directors for several organizations. One of these was the Academy for Educational Development. Her personal papers and writings are kept at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center. They are part of their Special Collections and Archives.

Niara Sudarkasa passed away on May 31, 2019, at the age of 80. Her life showed her dedication to education, African studies, and breaking barriers for future generations.