From the Nominator

"2020 marked the 50th anniversary of a decade in which Drexel University welcomed the largest number of Black students in its history. At the same time, the world was grappling with the pandemic, turmoil from racial injustices and inequality, and the bitter U.S. political landscape. 

Angela Dowd-Burton, an alumnus, trustee, and member of Drexel University’s Black Alumni Council (DUBAC), saw an opportunity to inspire the Drexel community, particularly current students, by telling the stories of Drexel’s Black alumni. Her idea became a book, A Legacy to Share - Navigating Life’s Challenges & Celebrating Our Greatest Achievements. 

Through personal essays and interviews, more than 50 Black alumni shared their stories of how they faced obstacles with resilience—in their lives, at Drexel, and in their careers—to achieve success and a zest for lifelong learning. The book shows the arc of Black Drexel Dragons, including profiles of William Sidney Pittman, Drexel’s first Black graduate, and Barbara Johns Powell, a civil rights activist, to current alumni who span industries and professions. Proceeds from book sales will support the DUBAC scholarship.    

Although Drexel supported the project with staff and financial resources, the driving forces behind the book were Angela, the alumni volunteers who served on the editorial committee, and the alumni authors who shared their stories. Some of the participants had not engaged with the university before and have been inspired to reconnect to support the next generation of Black alumni while actively participating in programs, volunteer opportunities, and philanthropy.""

From the Judges

Aimed to engage traditionally marginalized voices. An interesting way to tackle the history of the institution. Resulted in high engagement with the writers of the book, as well as those who served on the book committee.