Civil Rights

Nexton Marshall, 1962

During the 1960s, AM&N emerged as an important center of Civil Rights activism in Arkansas, as students challenged racial segregation and discrimination throughout Pine Bluff and the surrounding Delta region. The struggle placed students in a difficult position: college administrators faced pressure from state political leaders who could threaten institutional funding, while students increasingly viewed direct action as a moral imperative. On February 1, 1963—the third anniversary of the historic Greensboro sit-ins—thirteen AM&N students entered the F. W. Woolworth store in downtown Pine Bluff and sat at its segregated lunch counter, initiating the city’s first sit-in demonstration. The students remained peacefully seated for more than two hours despite the counter’s closure and the resistance their actions provoked. The demonstration became a catalyst for the Pine Bluff Student Movement, which expanded to include boycotts, picketing, and protests challenging segregation in local businesses and public accommodations. As the campaign gained momentum, participating students confronted the possibility of suspension, expulsion, and other personal consequences.

Among the student activists was Brother Nexton Marshall Jr., whose participation reflected the courage and determination of a generation unwilling to accept second-class citizenship. Brother Marshall’s involvement carried substantial personal and academic consequences. Despite threats of suspension and expulsion, the students persisted in their nonviolent campaign, attracting support from both Black and White citizens who recognized the injustice of segregation. Following his suspension for his role in organizing and participating in the protest, he submitted a letter of apology at the urging of his father, Brother Nexton Marshall Sr., which secured his readmission to AM&N. His return to the college, however, did not diminish his commitment to civil rights. His return to the college, however, did not diminish his commitment to civil rights as he would not stop participating in the Civil Rights movement and was subsequently drafted to serve in the military.

Brother Marshall’s experience unfolded amid a broader struggle over the responsibilities of educational institutions, the risks of student protest, and the pursuit of racial equality. Although AM&N administrators sought to protect the college from political retaliation, students continued to press for change, and the movement extended beyond the campus into the surrounding community. Upon being stationed in Alabama, Bro Marshall would continue to fight for the rights of his people, leading the charge against housing discrimination. His unwavering commitment to social justice remains a significant part of his legacy.


Jimmy Ross, 1961

Dr. Jimmy L. Ross earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in 1965, a master's degree from the University of Illinois in 1966, and a doctorate in education from IU in 1976.
Bro. Ross was among the first Blacks nationally to hold a major administrative leadership position at a predominantly White Institution, serving as the first director of the IU Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. Ross was an influential figure at Indiana University Bloomington, known for his compassion and courage, helping countless students overcome financial barriers to achieve higher education. He played an essential role in IU's race relations and supported the Groups Program, aiding first-generation, low-income, and disabled students.

A dedicated professional, Ross was actively involved in financial aid associations and educational organizations, contributing to NASFAA's journal editorial board and research committee. At the time of his retirement, he was honored by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) with its Distinguished Service Award. Beyond his academic career, he participated in civic activities, most notably the Neal-Marshall Alumni Club at IU, of which he was a founding member.

He remained an influential and respected member of the IU community until his early retirement in 1988 due to a degenerative spinal condition. His legacy of support and encouragement for students and athletes alike left a lasting impact on the university.