Education

Dr. John L. Wilson
Delta Chapter
John Leod Wilson is a notable alumnus of Kansas State Agricultural College (now Kansas State University). Throughout three decades as a teacher and college administrator in the South, he established YMCA and YWCA chapters at various high schools and colleges, promoting racial understanding during uneasy social climates.
Wilson's commitment to education was instilled early in life, growing up in a household where it shared equal importance with religion and responsibility. In 1919, he became the first black graduate of Ottawa High School in Kansas and earned a degree in chemistry from Kansas State Agricultural College in 1923, followed by a master's degree in chemistry from the University of Kansas and a doctorate from the University of Indiana.
As an academic dean for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluffs and serving in various roles at other Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Wilson dedicated himself to student development. During World War II, he made a personal impact on thousands of military personnel as a director and administrator with the USO in different regions of the United States.
Wilson's family history holds significance, with his grandfather being a freed slave from Howard County, Missouri, who settled in Franklin County, Kansas. His father, an astute businessman, owned the first gas station in Ottawa and several rental properties.

Dr. Calvin Johnson
After completing his studies at AM&N College (now UAPB) in 1963, Dr. Johnson embarked on a journey that would eventually lead him back to his alma mater. Over the years, he demonstrated his commitment to education and academia, holding various influential positions within the University.
Dr. Johnson's dedication to education and his leadership skills were evident during his 18-year tenure as the Dean of the School of Education at UAPB. His contributions extended beyond the campus, as he served as Director of several grant-sponsored projects and P-12 Partnership programs, impacting educational opportunities and outcomes for students.
Before returning to UAPB to serve as Interim Chancellor, Dr. Johnson contributed to the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where he served as the Chairman of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction. He also brought his expertise to the Arkansas public schools, leaving a positive mark on the educational landscape.
Beyond academia, Dr. Johnson delved into public service, serving as a legislator in the Arkansas House of Representatives for six years. As the first African-American Chair of the House of Representatives Education Committee and Co-Chair of the Joint Education Adequacy Committee during the pivotal Arkansas court case Lakeview vs. State of Arkansas (2001-2003), he played a crucial role in shaping education policies and ensuring adequate resources for schools.
Throughout his career, Dr. Johnson's accomplishments have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. These include the Outstanding Service Award by the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund, the Bernice Jones Award for Advocacy on Behalf of Children and Families in Arkansas, the Arkansas Literacy Champion title, and the Walton Family Foundation Scholarship Award, among others.
Dr. Johnson's commitment to serving the community goes beyond his professional achievements. He is actively involved in various organizations, including the UAPB National Alumni Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and the Royal Knight Society. He also serves as a Deacon at Barraque Street Church.