DeCosta-Willis honored as first Black faculty member at then-Memphis State
City Court Judge Tarik Sugarmon attends a ceremony on the University of Memphis campus, for his mother Miriam DeCosta-Willis, on Monday, Dec. 14. DeCosta-Willis was denied entrance to then-Memphis State University in 1957. In 1966, she became the school’s first Black professor. The recognition “speaks to the strength of the person we recognize and the evolution of diversity in this institution,” Sugarmon said. (Mark Weber/Daily Memphian)
The University of Memphis unveiled plans Monday, Dec. 14, for a plaque honoring Miriam DeCosta Sugarmon Willis, the school’s first African American faculty member.
Topics
University of Memphis Miriam DeCosta-Willis David Rudd Tarik SugarmonBill Dries on demand
Never miss an article. Sign up to receive Bill Dries' stories as they’re published.
Enter your e-mail address
Bill Dries
Bill Dries covers city and county government and politics. He is a native Memphian and has been a reporter for more than 40 years.
Want to comment on our stories or respond to others? Join the conversation by subscribing now. Only paid subscribers can add their thoughts or upvote/downvote comments. Our commenting policy can be viewed here.