A chronological record of Black women in higher education.

Photo: Outdoor classroom, Port Royal Experiment—Beaufort, South Carolina

This is a historical timeline celebrating the early educational pathways and accomplishments of Black women. These women's lives, although rooted in history, can be incredibly informative for understanding the contemporary pathways of Black women to, through and beyond college. Through this timeline we learn about the women who preceded and paved a pathway to Mary Jane Patterson, as well as those who followed her in her footsteps to earn a college degree.

These resources were developed through a generous grant from Lumina Foundation and developed by our team with direction from Dr. Francena Turner.

Photo: Jackson State University Prancing J-Settes

Explore this interactive map of Black women in higher education across time. Thank you to Dr. Francena Turner for her contribution.

In collaboration with the Century Foundation, the Mary Jane Patterson Legagcy Project worked on three policy briefs and programming to provide comprehensive insights into the challenges and triumphs of Black women in higher education, offering valuable perspectives for students, educators, policymakers, and advocates.

Centering Black Women’s Experiences Regarding College Choice

This report delves into the factors influencing Black women's decisions when selecting a college, highlighting the structural and systemic challenges they face.

Persistence and Resistance: Black Women Navigating Barriers in Higher Education

This study explores the resilience of Black women as they confront and overcome obstacles within higher education institutions.

Black Women’s Experiences Financing Their College Education

This brief examines the financial challenges Black women encounter in pursuing higher education and their strategies for managing these obstacles.

The Mary Jane Legacy Project: Bridging Educational Achievement and Economic Equity for Black Women Through Policy

On September 12, 2024, a collaborative virtual discussion with The Century Foundation focused on elevating and centering the post-secondary experiences of Black women and the implications of pursuing a college degree. The webinar explored various issues, policy-related topics, and developments concerning Black women in higher education.