Education Special Collections

Rufus Ballard Atwood (1897--1983) became president of what is now known as Kentucky State University, in 1929. For many years, it was the only state college open to blacks in Kentucky. Atwood expanded and strengthened the academic and athletic programs and greatly increased enrollment during his tenure; he retired in 1962. Atwood and his friends, relatives, and associates discuss his life and career.

Members of the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence give brief biographical information, then discuss the committee and its role in education reform. Topics discussed include early meetings; the leadership of Ed Prichard, Bob Sexton, and the female members of the committee; the committee's change in focus from higher education to K-12; the transition from a government group to a private, non-profit organization; the accomplishments of the organization; and remaining obstacles to education in Kentucky.

The History of Kentucky's Community Colleges oral histories include interviews conducted with community leaders and early administrators, faculty, staff, and students associated with the early history of community colleges in Kentucky. Interviews focus on the origins, implementations, impact and progress of Kentucky's community colleges, as well as the roles of those involved in the beginning decades of college development.