Mordecai Wyatt Johnson Quotes

A collection of quotes by Mordecai Wyatt Johnson.

Mordecai Wyatt Johnson was an influential figure in the field of education and the first African American president of Howard University. Born on January 10, 1890, in Paris, Tennessee, Johnson became passionate about education at an early age. He attended Roger Williams University and later transferred to Morehouse College, where he graduated in 1911.

Johnson went on to pursue his graduate studies at the University of Chicago and later earned a Ph.D. in sociology from Harvard University in 1917. He became an ordained Baptist minister and served as a pastor in Chicago before accepting a teaching position at Howard University in 1915.

In 1926, Johnson was appointed as the president of Howard University, a historically Black institution in Washington, D.C. Under his leadership, the university experienced significant growth and advancements for African American students. He created new academic programs, expanded the campus, and pushed for racial equality in higher education.

During his tenure, Johnson fostered a strong commitment to social justice, advocating for civil rights and equal opportunities for African Americans. He played a key role in establishing the Howard University School of Law and the university's medical and dental schools.

Mordecai Wyatt Johnson served as the president of Howard University for more than 30 years, from 1926 to 1960, making a lasting impact on the institution and the educational landscape for African Americans. His contributions to education and his unwavering dedication to racial equality continue to be remembered and honored to this day.