Stephen J. Wright facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Stephen J. Wright
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| Born | September 8, 1910 |
| Died | April 16, 1996 (aged 85) Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
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| Alma mater | Hampton University Howard University New York University |
| Occupation | University administrator |
| Known for | President of Fisk University (1957–1966) |
| Spouse(s) | Rosalind Wright |
Stephen Junius Wright, Jr. (September 8, 1910 – April 16, 1996) was an important American leader in education. He worked as a university administrator, which means he helped run colleges and universities. He is best known for being the president of Fisk University and for his work with the United Negro College Fund. He also played a role in helping to end the Nashville sit-ins, which were peaceful protests for civil rights.
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Who Was Stephen J. Wright?
Stephen J. Wright was born on September 8, 1910, in Dillon, South Carolina. He grew up to become a very respected person in the world of education. He believed strongly in helping young people get a good education.
Early Life and Learning
Stephen Wright went to several colleges to get his own education. He studied at Hampton University, Howard University, and New York University. These experiences helped him prepare for his future career. He learned a lot about how schools work and how to lead them.
Leading Fisk University
From 1957 to 1966, Stephen J. Wright was the seventh president of Fisk University. Fisk University is a special kind of school called a historically black university. These schools were created to provide higher education for African American students. They played a very important role in history. As president, Wright helped guide the university during a time of big changes in America.
Helping Students Across America
Besides leading Fisk University, Stephen Wright also served as the president of the United Negro College Fund. The UNCF is an organization that helps students attend historically black colleges and universities. It raises money to give scholarships and support these schools. Wright's work with the UNCF helped many students achieve their dreams of going to college.
Working for Change: The Nashville Sit-ins
In 1960, Stephen Wright was part of a group that worked to end the Nashville sit-ins. The sit-ins were peaceful protests where people sat at lunch counters that only served white customers. They did this to protest unfair segregation laws. Wright helped find a way for the city to stop these unfair rules. His involvement showed his commitment to fairness and equality for everyone.
Stephen J. Wright passed away on April 16, 1996, in Baltimore, Maryland. He left behind a legacy of dedication to education and civil rights. His work helped open doors for many students and made a positive impact on American society.
