Rufus B. Atwood facts for kids

Rufus B. Atwood (1897-1983) was an important leader in education. He served as the sixth president of Kentucky State University in Frankfort, Kentucky. He was the longest-serving president in the university's history.

Early Life and Education

Rufus Ballad Atwood was born on March 15, 1897, in Hickman, Kentucky. He went to Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. He earned his first bachelor's degree in biology in 1920.

During his studies, he paused to serve in the United States Army during World War I. He was part of the Negro Signal Corps. For his service, he received a Bronze Star Medal. After the war, he continued his education. He earned another bachelor's degree from Iowa State University in 1923. Later, he received his master's degree from the University of Chicago.

Leading a University

In 1923, Mr. Atwood began working at Prairie View State Normal and Industrial College in Texas. He started as a professor of agriculture. He later became the dean of agriculture there.

In 1929, he became the president of Kentucky State College for Colored Persons. He led the university for 33 years, until 1962. This made him the longest-serving president in the school's history.

Key Achievements

Under his leadership, Kentucky State College grew a lot. It became a fully accredited four-year college. This meant its degrees were officially recognized. Mr. Atwood also received special honorary degrees. These came from Lane College and Monrovia College and Industrial Institute. In 1962, he was given the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Citizen Medallion. This award honors people who serve their communities well.

Fighting for Equality

During the 1940s and 1950s, schools in the United States were changing. This was a time when schools were becoming desegregated. This meant that schools that only allowed Black students were closing. Mr. Atwood worked very hard to keep Kentucky State open and strong. He wanted it to continue to grow and be important.

In May 1954, the Supreme Court made a big decision. This decision, called Brown v. Board of Education, made segregation in schools illegal. Just five months later, Kentucky State enrolled its first white student. This was a major step for the university.

Today, there is an institute named after him at Kentucky State University. It is called the Atwood Institute for Race, Education, and the Democratic Ideal. It helps people learn about race, education, and fairness.