08/17/2026
🌟 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.
✨2007 Inductee | Dr. Harold W. Lang Sr.
Dr. Harold Lang, Sr., an African American Education Archives and History Program Hall of Fame inductee (2007), was a distinguished educator, respected scholar and historian, civic leader, devoted family and church leader, and passionate advocate for human rights. Born in Dallas, Texas, he attended Phillis Wheatley Elementary School and graduated from Lincoln High School in the Dallas Independent School District (DISD). He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, Texas, a Master of Education degree from Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas, and a Doctor of Education degree from the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas.
Dr. Lang dedicated his career to advancing educational excellence through teaching, leadership, and scholarship. He taught at both the elementary and secondary levels in Bremond, Texas, and later in the Dallas Independent School District. His expertise also led him to serve as a consultant for faculty and administrative groups, education service centers, and the Bishop College Integration Institute. In addition, he taught graduate courses in supervision and curriculum at Prairie View A&M University, helping prepare future generations of educational leaders.
From 1957 to 1971, Dr. Lang served as principal of N.W. Harllee Elementary School in DISD, where he was recognized for his visionary leadership and commitment to student achievement. In 1971, he was appointed director of system-wide testing for the district. Four years later, he became director-principal of the Lincoln High School Renewal Project, serving from 1975 to 1980. As an educational leader and agent of change, Dr. Lang believed every student who entered Lincoln High School should know they were capable of academic excellence, and he worked tirelessly to instill that belief in students, educators, and the broader school community.
Beyond his work in education, Dr. Lang made significant contributions as an author and historian. He published articles on elementary education and African American history and produced a copyrighted educational brochure highlighting African American historical contributions. In 1966, he edited and compiled The Negro in American History, an exhibit presented at the State Fair of Texas for the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, helping preserve and celebrate the rich history and achievements of African Americans.
Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Harold Lang, Sr. exemplified scholarship, leadership, and service. His unwavering commitment to education, historical preservation, and equal opportunity continues to inspire educators, students, and community leaders throughout Dallas and beyond.
Learn more about his impact: https://vimeo.com/866960801
📍 Come visit the Educators Hall of Fame exhibit at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave., Dallas — open Tuesday–Saturday.
