Spelman College’s Homecoming was a star-studded affair as the College celebrated the official opening of the newly-renovated LaTanya Richardson Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson Performing Arts Center on Thursday, October 24th.
LaTanya Richardson Jackson, C’71, and Samuel L. Jackson, Morehouse ’72, were joined by family, Hollywood A-listers, and the Spelman community to dedicate the center and unveil a mural highlighting their lifetime of achievements in the arts.
“Sam and I are continually invested in the success of Spelman College because Spelman first invested so much in us,” said Richardson Jackson. “Everything I know, all of my beginnings were in this building. It is an honor for us to help support the school’s vital mission, and to ensure that it continues to serve as a space of inspiration and training for the next generation of leaders. May the unveiling of this glorious mural be an inspiration to the beautiful artists past, present and future who walk these halls.”
LaTanya and Sam, who met while students at Spelman and Morehouse College, respectively, donated $5 million towards the renovation of the Rockefeller Fine Arts Building.
This generous gift, the largest ever from Spelman alumnae, transformed the facility into a state-of-the-art performing arts center. The couple also worked tirelessly to secure additional support, bringing the total funds raised to $17.3 million.
“Tonight’s celebration heralds a vibrant new era for the arts at Spelman, where performances and presentations will now flourish in a cutting-edge facility designed to inspire creativity and excellence,” said Spelman College Interim President Rosalind ‘Roz’ Brewer, C’84.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to alumna LaTanya Richardson Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson for their unwavering commitment and passionate support of the arts at Spelman. LaTanya and Samuel’s love story began on stage at Spelman, and their remarkable careers serve as a beacon of inspiration. It is only fitting that their journey is honored with a lasting tribute in the very place where it all began.”
A black and white mural, created by Atlanta artist Quintin Jackson, was unveiled as part of the celebration. The mural is a pictorial history honoring LaTanya and Sam’s talents and contributions, including their time in the Morehouse Spelman Players theatrical group.
by Tony O. Lawson
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