Dr. Mordecai Johnson, the first Black president of Howard University, died in 1976

September 10

On September 10, 1976, Dr. Mordecai Johnson, the first African American president of Howard University, died at the age of 86. 

Dr. Mordecai Johnson is known for being the first African American president of Howard University. He served as president for 34 years from 1926 – 1960. During his tenure, the university made many strides, including earning accreditation. 

Today, the Mordecai Wyatt Johnson Administration Building at Howard University is named in his honor.

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Sources

The New York Times. (1976, September 11). Mordecai Johnson, educator,dies at 86. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/1976/09/11/archives/mordecai-johnson-educator-dies-at-86-dr-walter-riese-86-specialist.html