Key Points:
• James L. Solomon Jr. was the first Black student to enroll in the University of South Carolina’s graduate program in mathematics, and one of only three Black students on campus in 1963.
• Solomon passed away on November 29, 2024, at the age of 94.
• The University of South Carolina honored Solomon earlier this year with a 12-foot monument recognizing his role in desegregating the institution.
The University of South Carolina has a profound history, and one of the significant milestones is the moment when James L. Solomon Jr. became the first Black student to enroll in its graduate program in mathematics. Solomon’s achievement, along with that of Henrie Monthieth Treadwell and Robert Anderson, marked a major turning point in the institution’s desegregation process.
Solomon, who passed away on November 29, 2024, at the age of 94, was a professor at Morris College, a historically Black college or university (HBCU) in Fort Sumter, South Carolina. At the time of his enrollment at USC, the campus only had three Black students, making his decision to join the institution a groundbreaking step.
Solomon’s decision to pursue his master’s degree in mathematics at USC was a bold move, given the time and the challenges that came with it. Breaking the color line at a predominantly white institution like USC was a significant achievement, and Solomon’s courage and determination should be acknowledged and remembered.
In 2022, the University of South Carolina erected a monument in Solomon’s honor, recognizing his role in desegregating the institution. This gesture not only acknowledges Solomon’s remarkable achievement but also serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and diversity in education.
Solomon’s story is a testament to the resilience and determination of those who fought for change. As a professor and a scholar, Solomon continued to make a significant impact in his community, inspiring successive generations of students and scholars.
It is essential to recognize and remember figures like Solomon, whose contributions to the fight against racism and discrimination have paved the way for future generations.
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