The Fisk University Commencement Programs collection contains a comprehensive collection of materials documenting the university's annual graduation ceremonies. These programs highlight the academic achievements and milestones of Fisk University’s graduating class, featuring detailed information such as the names of graduates, keynote speakers, honorary degree recipients, and the schedule of events for each commencement. The programs also reflect the traditions and cultural significance of the university’s ceremonies, offering insights into the evolving academic and social landscape of Fisk over the years.
The Fisk University News was Published bi-monthly by Fisk University with information for, by, and about Alumni of the institution and entered as second-class matter, July 26, 1910, at the post office at Nashville, TN, under the act July 16, 1894. Alumni and friends of the university could purchase subscriptions to the news magazine.
The University Clarion was a newsletter produced by the Fisk University Public Relations Office and was printed three times a month for the campus community. First published in 1935, The University Clarion provided information about on-campus events, visitors, and other information.
Contributors: Ikeoluwa Albert, Matthew Norwood, Chidubem Uba
The Spring Arts Festival is an annual cultural event held every Spring and is an established tradition at Fisk University. Initially known as "The Festival of Negro Music and Fine Arts," the first festival was held in I 929 under the auspices of the Fisk Music School with Ray Francis Brown as Director. Invitations were sent to Nashville patrons of music and to friends of Fisk all over the country requesting their presence at this initial three-day celebration.
As a result of the success of the first Festival, it was decided that the event should become an annual event. Over the years, guest participants have included poets such as Langston Hughes, guest convocation and seminar speakers such as Martin Luther King, Jr. , Ossie Davis, and Sidney Poitier, musicians who have ranged from Roland Hayes, Quincy Jones, and the Nashville Symphony Orchestra, and dancers representing the Pearl Primus, Jose Limon, and Jean Leon Destine Dance Troupes.
In conjunction with the seminars, concerts, film showings and play productions, there have been several noteworthy art exhibits. Items from the Metropolitan Museum of Art paintings by Aaron Douglas and other members of the Fisk faculty, portraits by Carl Van Vechten and works by Elizabeth Catlett have been displayed at the Library, Livingston Hall, and in later years, the Van Vechten Art Gallery.
Contributors: Ikeoluwa Albert, Matthew Norwood, Chidubem Uba
Started in 1916, the Oval is a student-operated organization producing yearly editions for each academic. The editor approves all printed material to ensure quality printing. The Oval is a department of Student Affairs and adheres to all University regulations.
Contributors: Ikeoluwa Albert, Chidubem Uba, Dr. Magana Kabugi, Matthew Norwood
Started in 1948, this student ran a newspaper after discussions between the Student Council and Student Publications Board of Fisk University. Students enrolled in ENG 277 would make up the newspaper staff, and their professor and another faculty member served as advisors. The newspaper was published semi-monthly during the school year by Fisk University students and printed by The Hemphill Press.
Contributors: Ikeoluwa Albert, Chidubem Uba, Matthew Norwood
