The University of Georgia's first African-American graduate, Mary Frances Early, will be the namesake of one of the school's colleges, with the naming ceremony planned for February of 2020 as part of the celebration of Black History Month.
The Board of Regents gave its final approval to name the College of Education after Early, who graduated in 1962 with a master's degree in music education.
“Through her courage and determination, Ms. Early has made an indelible mark on UGA, and we are pleased to honor her legacy and lifetime of accomplishments as a music educator and civil rights icon,” said UGA President Jere W. Morehead in a press release.
She also lead music education in Atlanta public schools for 37 years and later three of Atlanta's historically black colleges and universities.
A portrait of Early was dedicated to her in the Administration Building in 2018, and she was awarded the President's Medal, one of UGA's highest honors.
“Ms. Early has spent her life as a tireless advocate for racial equality and for the importance of music education in the lives of children,” said College of Education Dean Denise A. Spangler in the release. “We are proud to create this permanent tribute to Ms. Early and the countless lives she has touched.”
