People, Locations, Episodes

Lincoln University of Pennsylvania is Founded

On this date, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, one of the over 100 Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs), was founded.

Located in southern Chester County, the university opened its doors in 1854. Originally created for the education of the youth of African descent, it is open to all students today. Lincoln University offers bachelor’s degrees in the arts and sciences, business, computer science, law, health sciences, and technology. In addition, degrees in education, communications, performing arts, recreation and leisure services, religious studies, and social work can be earned.

From 1854 to 1954, 20% of Black physicians and over 10% of Black lawyers in the United States were Lincoln grads.  The university celebrated its 100th anniversary by amending its charter in 1953 to permit granting degrees to women.  In 1972 Lincoln University formally associated with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a state-related institution.

In November 2014, University President Robert R. Jennings resigned under pressure from faculty, students, and alumni after comments relating to issues of sexual assault.  Jennings was also the subject of a couple of no-confidence votes by faculty and the alumni association in October 2014.  On May 11, 2017, the Lincoln University board of trustees announced the appointment of Dr. Brenda A. Allen, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at Winston-Salem State University, as Lincoln's new president. A 1981 alumna of Lincoln, Allen's inauguration was held on October 20, 2017.

It awards master’s degrees in education and the social sciences. Former Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall and C.O.R.E. founder James Farmer Jr. are some of Lincoln’s most distinguished alumni and faculty.