Our Mission & Purpose
Preserving Our History. Supporting Our Students. Strengthening Our Community.
The Booker T. Washington High School Alumni Association exists to preserve and honor the legacy of Booker T. Washington High School, strengthen connections among alumni, support future generations through educational opportunities, and promote community service and civic involvement. Through preservation, fellowship, scholarships, and community engagement, the Association works to ensure that the history and contributions of Booker T. Washington High School remain visible for generations to come.
Our Story
Booker T. Washington High School opened in 1927 as Rocky Mount’s high school for African American students. For more than four decades, it served generations of students during an era when educational opportunities were divided by segregation.
The school became known for academic achievement, strong leadership, athletics, music, drama, public speaking, and a deep sense of community. By the 1950s, the growing campus included classroom additions, an industrial education building, a gymnasium, and a cafeteria. Booker T. Washington High School remained an important educational and cultural institution until the Rocky Mount school system fully desegregated and the campus closed as a high school in 1969.
Historical Timeline
-
A public school for African American children was established in Rocky Mount.
-
The school became known as Lincoln School.
-
Booker T. Washington High School opened.
-
Booker T. Washington High School participated in the Secondary School Study, a national educational research project involving selected Black high schools. The school helped document innovative approaches to curriculum, teaching, and school administration.
-
November 27, 1962
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke at Booker T. Washington High School before approximately 1,800 people. His remarks included language that anticipated portions of his later “I Have a Dream” speech.
-
Booker T. Washington High School closed as a separate high school as the Rocky Mount school system completed desegregation. Its students joined Rocky Mount Senior High School, while alumni continued preserving the traditions, history, and legacy of Booker T. Washington.
-
The Booker T. Washington High School Alumni Association purchased the Belk-Tyler Building in downtown Rocky Mount and developed the Alumni Association Resource Center and museum collection to preserve and share the history and accomplishments of Booker T. Washington alumni.
-
The Booker T. Washington High School Alumni Association, Inc. received federal recognition as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
-
Booker T. Washington High School will commemorate 100 years since its opening. The Centennial Celebration will honor the school's history, alumni, educators, families, and lasting impact on the Rocky Mount community.
A Legacy of Excellence
Academic Achievement
|
Athletic Excellence
|
Arts & Culture
|
Community Leadership
Academic Achievement | Athletic Excellence | Arts & Culture | Community Leadership
Booker T. Washington students distinguished themselves in academics, athletics, marching band, drama, public speaking, and other activities. The school’s athletic programs earned regional and state recognition, and its auditorium served as an important gathering place for the wider community.
Historical materials also document visits and appearances by prominent figures, including Paul Robeson. Association research materials report that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. visited the school in November 1962 and presented portions of the message that later became nationally known through his “I Have a Dream” speech.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
The Booker T. Washington High School Alumni Association continues the school’s legacy through preservation, service, education, and community engagement. By protecting its history, supporting students, connecting alumni, and maintaining the Museum & Resource Center, the Association ensures that the impact of Booker T. Washington High School continues for generations to come.
Preserve History
Protect photographs, records, artifacts, and stories connected to Booker T. Washington High School.
Support Students
Provide scholarships and encourage future generations in their educational goals.
Connect Alumni
Create opportunities for fellowship, communication, service, and continued involvement.
Serve the Community
Maintain the Museum & Resource Center and support programs that keep the school’s history accessible and relevant.
Meet the Board
The Association is guided by dedicated alumni leaders committed to preserving its history, strengthening alumni connections, and supporting future generations.
John Joyner
President
Lorraine Odom
Financial Secretary
Isaac(Ike) Smith
Vice President
Emily (Jeanette) Coleman
Treasurer
Vannette Woods
Recording Secretary
Deborah Gaines
Correspondence Secretary
Celebrating 100 Years of Our Story
In 2027, the Booker T. Washington High School community will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the school’s opening. This centennial celebration will honor the educators, students, families, and community members whose courage, achievement, and service shaped generations.
More than a remembrance of the past, the Centennial is an opportunity to strengthen the Association, preserve the school’s history, reconnect alumni and families, and ensure that the Booker T. Washington legacy continues to inspire future generations.