African American Education Archives and History Program

Name: African American Education Archives and History Program
Address: Dallas, TX, 75241, US
Telephone: +19722986980
Price range: $$

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African American Education Archives and History Program

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The African American Education Archives and History Program began in February 2002. Inductees will be both historical and contemporary figures. Mrs.

AAEAHP serves to preserve the history of the African American education experience in Dallas County so that contemporary society can study the lessons learned through the struggles and triumphs of African American educators, students and the community. The mission is to collect and maintain a repository of artifacts, documents, and visual images that record the African American education experience in Dallas County. It is important to preserve this history so that contemporary society can study the lessons learned through the struggles and triumphs of African American educators, students and the community. Components of AAEAHP include:
The AFRICAN AMERICAN EDUCATION HALL OF FAME component identifies and recognizes educators and others who have made positive and outstanding contributions to the educational experiences of African Americans in Dallas County. Bobbie Lang served as the first chair of the event. The ARCHIVES & HISTORY component focuses on collecting artifacts to be included in media presentations, and chronicles the history of the education of African American students and educators who served in Dallas County. CURRICULUM MODULES AND MULTIMEDIA EXHIBITS COMPONENTS are being developed for use in schools and to share with the community. Permanent displays are available for public viewing at the African American Museum. The ORAL HISTORY component seeks to collect the voices of individuals who impacted or were impacted by the Dallas County education experience that breached the walls of ignorance and opened pathways to success. The hope is to preserve the experiences of those who transitioned from segregated schools to desegregated schools to benefit from the lessons learned. The preservation of these profiles allows the lessons learned to be celebrated.

10/13/2026

🌟 Hall of Fame Highlight 🌟
Established to honor excellence and leadership, the African American Education Archives and History Program’s Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have shaped African American education in Dallas County since 1902. Join us in the weeks ahead as we highlight their contributions and enduring influence on our community.

✨2009 Inductee | Hollis Brashear

Inducted into the AAEAHP Hall of Fame in 2009, Hollis Brashear was a distinguished advocate for educational excellence and equity who dedicated more than a decade to serving the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) as the District 6 trustee, representing Southwest Dallas. First elected to the Board of Trustees in 1992, he was reelected in 1993, 1996, 1999, and 2002. Throughout his tenure, Brashear held several key leadership positions, including board vice president from 1994 to 1997 and board president from December 1997 to June 1999 and again from May 2003 to May 2004.

As board president, Brashear helped guide one of the nation’s largest urban school districts, providing oversight of a $1.1 billion budget and more than 19,000 employees. He chaired the Business Committee for several years and served on the Education Committee from 1992 to 1994. A steadfast champion of educational opportunity, Brashear played an instrumental role in expanding Advanced Placement programs to every DISD high school, including those in southern Dallas. He also advocated for early childhood education and programs that encouraged greater parental involvement, recognizing the vital role families play in student success.

Beyond his service to public education, Brashear demonstrated a deep commitment to civic leadership and community engagement. He served on the Board of Elders at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship and maintained affiliations with numerous organizations, including the Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce, Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, University of Texas at Dallas Development Board, Junior Black Academy of Arts and Letters, and African American Museum of Dallas. He also served on the board of the Science Place.

Brashear’s legacy reflects a lasting commitment to expanding educational opportunities, strengthening public schools, and empowering future generations of Dallas students through dedicated leadership and community service.

Learn more about his impact: https://vimeo.com/854902921

10/05/2026

🌟 Hall of Fame Highlight 🌟
Established to honor excellence and leadership, the African American Education Archives and History Program’s Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have shaped African American education in Dallas County since 1902. Join us in the weeks ahead as we highlight their contributions and enduring influence on our community.

✨2008 Inductee | Ella Lois Hudson

An inductee of the African American Education Archives and History Program Hall of Fame in 2008, Ella Hudson was a master music teacher who devoted 30 years to the Dallas Independent School District (DISD). Through her teaching, mentorship, and musical leadership, she brought joy, inspiration, and a lasting appreciation for music to thousands of students and community members.

Hudson began her teaching career at the Houston College for Negroes, now Texas Southern University, in Houston, Texas. From 1942 to 1945, her exceptional musical talent and leadership were evident in her role as music director of the Libby Benson Nursery School.

A gifted educator and organizer, Hudson encouraged the Small Fry Concert, featuring African American students from DISD, and established numerous student musical organizations throughout the district. These included the Bluebirds of H. S. Thompson Elementary School, the Nightingales of William Brown Miller Elementary School, the Sarah Zumwalt Choral Club, and the Bluebonnets of T. D. Marshall Community Learning Center. Particularly noteworthy, Hudson composed the school song for each school where she taught, leaving a distinctive musical legacy at every institution she served.

Her influence extended well beyond the classroom. Hudson organized a 50-to-100-piece Rhythm Band and Orchestra for the Tiny Tots Choir of St. Paul United Methodist Church, the Cherub Choir of New Hope Baptist Church, and the Rose Landers Choral Ensemble of Teenage Girls. Through these initiatives, she created opportunities for young people to develop their musical talents, confidence, and appreciation for the arts.

In recognition of her significant contributions to the cultural development of her community, Hudson received the prestigious Woman of the Year Award from the Florence B. Brooks Literary and Art Club of Fort Worth.

Ella Hudson’s remarkable career exemplified the transformative power of music education and community service. Her dedication to nurturing young talent and enriching the cultural life of her community left a legacy that extended far beyond the classroom.

Learn more about her impact: https://vimeo.com/866991762

📍 Come visit the Educators Hall of Fame exhibit at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave., Dallas — open Tuesday–Saturday.

09/29/2026

🌟 Hall of Fame Highlight 🌟
Established to honor excellence and leadership, the African American Education Archives and History Program’s Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have shaped African American education in Dallas County since 1902. Join us in the weeks ahead as we highlight their contributions and enduring influence on our community.

✨2008 Inductee | Dr. Robert Brown, Jr.

An inductee of the African American Education Archives and History Program Hall of Fame in 2008, Dr. Robert Brown, Jr. built an extraordinary career in education grounded in a strong academic foundation. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, Texas; a Master of Education from the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas; and a Doctor of Education in Administration and Supervision from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

A consummate educator and dedicated public servant, Dr. Brown devoted his career to public education, with much of his service spent in the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) during the latter half of the 20th century. He began his career as a mathematics teacher at H. S. Thompson Elementary School and Sequoyah Junior High School. He later returned to H. S. Thompson as an assistant principal and went on to serve as principal of Roger Q. Mills Elementary School and Boude Storey Middle School.

In 1972, Dr. Brown was selected to serve as director of the Paul L. Dunbar Community Learning Center, where he led an innovative teacher education program developed in collaboration with area universities. Following the reorganization of DISD, he was appointed director of Area IV, overseeing the work of principals and schools within the area.

Dr. Brown continued to provide leadership through subsequent district reorganizations, serving in administrative roles within the Southwest Subdistrict, first overseeing grades K–6 and later grades 7–12; Subdistrict III secondary schools; and ultimately, secondary schools throughout the district.

After nearly three decades of dedicated service, Dr. Brown retired from the Dallas Independent School District in 1989 as Assistant Superintendent of Personnel Services. His career reflects a lasting commitment to educational excellence, leadership development, and the advancement of public education in Dallas.

Learn more about his impact: https://vimeo.com/866991681

📍 Come visit the Educators Hall of Fame exhibit at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave., Dallas — open Tuesday–Saturday.

09/22/2026

🌟 Hall of Fame Highlight 🌟
Established to honor excellence and leadership, the African American Education Archives and History Program’s Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have shaped African American education in Dallas County since 1902. Join us in the weeks ahead as we highlight their contributions and enduring influence on our community.

✨2008 Inductee | Dr. Joseph J. Rhoads

A 2008 inductee into the African American Education Archives and History Program Hall of Fame, Dr. Joseph J. Rhoads was a distinguished educator, public school administrator, and college president whose leadership made a lasting impact on African American education in Texas and beyond.

Born in Marshall, Texas, on October 30, 1890, Dr. Rhoads demonstrated an early commitment to academic excellence. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree with highest honors from Bishop College in Marshall in 1910 before continuing his education at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where he earned a Master of Arts degree.

Dr. Rhoads began his career in education in 1910 as assistant principal of the segregated H.B. Pemberton High School in Marshall, where he served until 1918. He later joined the faculty of Tuskegee Institute in Tuskegee, Alabama. In 1923, he returned to Texas to serve as principal of Booker T. Washington High School in the Dallas Independent School District, a position he held until 1929.

During his tenure at Booker T. Washington High School, Dr. Rhoads established himself as an exceptional administrator and a dedicated advocate for the broader African American community. His leadership extended beyond the classroom, including his role as a founder of the Moorland Family YMCA.

In 1929, Dr. Rhoads was elected president of his alma mater, Bishop College. He immediately launched the institution’s New Development Program, an ambitious initiative designed to strengthen and expand educational opportunities. The program focused on establishing Bishop College as a first-class senior college certified by the Texas State Board of Examiners, developing the Bishop College Center in Dallas into a premier junior college, sponsoring professional workshops for African American teachers, and recruiting and retaining one of the best-trained faculties serving African American students west of the Mississippi River.

Dr. Rhoads’ legacy continues to be honored throughout North Texas. Joseph J. Rhoads Elementary School in the Dallas Independent School District bears his name, and an education building on the campus of Paul Quinn College in Dallas was also named in his honor.

Through his lifelong dedication to education, institutional leadership, and community advancement, Dr. Joseph J. Rhoads helped expand opportunities for generations of African American students and educators, leaving an enduring legacy in Texas education.

Learn more about his impact: https://vimeo.com/866991599

📍 Come visit the Educators Hall of Fame exhibit at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave., Dallas — open Tuesday–Saturday.

09/18/2026

🌟 A Heartfelt Thank You!
We are deeply grateful for your generous support of the African American Education Archives and History Program. Your generosity helps us preserve, celebrate, and share the powerful history of African American education in Dallas County.
Because of you, these important stories and experiences can continue to educate, inspire, and empower future generations. 💙

Follow us on Facebook to see how your support is helping make a difference:
https://www.facebook.com/AAEAHP

09/17/2026

🎉 Today is ! 🎉
Join us in preserving history, recognizing leaders, empowering students, and building a stronger future for our community.
Your gift to the African American Education Archives and History Program—no matter the size—helps keep important stories alive and creates opportunities for generations to come. 💙
We’re proud of this work and deeply grateful for your support!

🔗 Give before midnight:
https://www.northtexasgivingday.org/organization/African-American-Education-Archives-And-History-Program

09/15/2026

🌟 Hall of Fame Highlight 🌟
Established to honor excellence and leadership, the African American Education Archives and History Program’s Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have shaped African American education in Dallas County since 1902. Join us in the weeks ahead as we highlight their contributions and enduring influence on our community.

✨2008 Inductee | Dr. Jesse Jai McNeil, Jr.

An African American Education Archives and History Program Hall of Fame honoree in 2008, Dr. Jesse McNeil devoted more than four decades to education, leadership, and the advancement of future generations.

Dr. McNeil earned his Bachelor of Music from the University of Redlands in Redlands, California; his Master of Education from Springfield College in Springfield, Massachusetts; and his Doctor of Education from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, Massachusetts.

Throughout his distinguished career as an educator and scholar, Dr. McNeil remained deeply committed to providing the highest standard of education for all students, with a particular focus on the educational experiences and success of African American children. He was passionate about developing thoughtful, reflective educational leaders through collaborative, field-based learning experiences that emphasized the importance of preparing children and adults to lead and thrive in diverse cultural settings.

Among Dr. McNeil’s most significant contributions was the founding of the McNeil Educational Foundation for Ecumenical Leadership. Established in 1999, the foundation was created to help educate and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Over the course of his more than 40-year career in education, Dr. McNeil served in a variety of influential roles, including music instructor, elementary school teacher, school administrator, and supervisor of school principals. He also shared his knowledge and expertise as a faculty member at several colleges and universities.

Dr. McNeil’s lifelong dedication to education, leadership, and service created a lasting legacy that continues to inspire educators and future leaders today.

Learn more about his impact: https://vimeo.com/866991516

📍 Come visit the Educators Hall of Fame exhibit at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave., Dallas — open Tuesday–Saturday.

09/10/2026

What Will Your Donation Make Possible? Your support for helps us invest in the future while preserving the past.

We’re raising funds to:
1️⃣ Collect and preserve oral histories�
2️⃣ Provide scholarships for graduating seniors�
3️⃣ Launch a Digital Interactive Wall at the African American Museum�
4️⃣ Develop PreK–3 curriculum for students and families through the Sankofa Children’s Center

Your early gift helps turn these important projects into reality and creates lasting opportunities for our community.

🎉 Give early now through September 17!
🔗https://www.northtexasgivingday.org/organization/African-American-Education-Archives-And-History-Program

09/09/2026

🌟 Hall of Fame Highlight 🌟
Established to honor excellence and leadership, the African American Education Archives and History Program’s Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have shaped African American education in Dallas County since 1902. Join us in the weeks ahead as we highlight their contributions and enduring influence on our community.

✨2008 Inductee | Dr. Comer Cottrell

An African American Education Archives and History Program Hall of Fame inductee in 2008, Dr. Comer Cottrell was a visionary entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community leader whose contributions created a lasting impact on the African American community.

Dr. Cottrell brought his successful ethnic hair care company, Pro-Line, from Los Angeles to Dallas, creating meaningful employment opportunities for the local community. Throughout his life, he remained deeply committed to civil rights, justice, and equality. His advocacy began with his involvement in the Watts community in California and continued in Dallas through his work with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and the Dallas City Council.

An accomplished entrepreneur, Dr. Cottrell shared his experiences and wisdom with future generations through his autobiography, Comer Cottrell, in which he reflected on the challenges he overcame and offered guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Education was also central to Dr. Cottrell’s legacy. He supported numerous educational initiatives through generous contributions, incentives, and scholarships. Among his most significant accomplishments was his purchase of the former Bishop College campus in Dallas and his instrumental role in relocating Paul Quinn College from Waco to that historic campus.

As vice chair of the Texas Youth Commission, Dr. Cottrell also worked to improve conditions and opportunities for the staff and students at Dallas House, now known as Cottrell House.

Through his entrepreneurship, philanthropy, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to education, Dr. Comer Cottrell built a legacy that continues to inspire generations.

Learn more about his impact: https://vimeo.com/866991446

📍 Come visit the Educators Hall of Fame exhibit at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave., Dallas — open Tuesday–Saturday.

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day!

Address

Dallas, TX
75241

Telephone

+19722986980

Website

http://www.aaeahp.org/

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