50th anniversary of UF integration to be celebrated

November 21, 2007

GAINVESVILLE, Fla. — Racial integration at the University of Florida came after years of struggle. In September 1958, George Starke Jr. became the first African American at UF admitted to the College of Law, and seven black students enrolled in the undergraduate program in 1962. Today, UF’s student body reflects the diversity of the state as well as the world.

Beginning in 2008, UF will commemorate the 50th anniversary of integration through several events culminating in 2009. The theme: “Celebrating the Firsts” will center around planned activities and events on the stories and remembrances of the first black graduate of UF – and from each college. A planning committee comprised of university faculty and staff, Alumni Association staff and community leaders, is charged with marking this significant moment in history at UF. For more information regarding the planning, please contact Florida Bridgewater-Alford, director of community relations at UF, at 352-392-4567 or bridgefl@ufl.edu.