Through Black self-help and the contributions of northern religious societies and philanthropies, several colleges were founded in Georgia, most of which now comprise the Atlanta University Center (AUC): Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Interdenominational Theological Center. The story of Black education tells of the struggle to become literate, skilled, and enlightened in a racist society. This exhibit focuses on the role families played in this struggle at the Atlanta University Center.
The Center’s mission, in the broad sense, was to serve families through education and training. Families sacrificed in the face of great odds to educate their children generation after generation. The Atlanta University motto, “I’ll Find A Way or Make One,” captures the spirit of their struggle, and speaks to the miracle of their achievement.
