The Indispensable Role of Blacks at Johns Hopkins (IRB) exhibit is a collaborative initiative co-sponsored by Johns Hopkins University President Ronald J. Daniels, Johns Hopkins Development and Alumni Relations (formerly the Office of External Affairs and Development), the Johns Hopkins University Black Faculty and Staff Association (BFSA), and the Fred Scott Brigade, represented by Dr. John F. Guess, Jr. This initiative seeks to honor and showcase the achievements of Black individuals who have made a lasting impact on Johns Hopkins University and beyond.
Through this project, we celebrate the contributions of trailblazing Black faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members who have shaped the university’s legacy. Explore the profiles of these distinguished individuals and their profound influence on Johns Hopkins.
Historical Background
The IRB exhibit emerged from a pivotal 2012 conversation between President Daniels and the BFSA, during which BFSA members emphasized the need to elevate the visibility of Black individuals and their vast contributions to Johns Hopkins. They envisioned a way for prospective students and their families—particularly those from the Black community—to see themselves reflected in the university’s history. Additionally, they sought to demonstrate to current students, faculty, staff, and visitors that Black scholars and professionals have played and continue to play a crucial role in shaping Johns Hopkins, spanning fields from medicine and science to the arts and humanities.
Recognizing this need, President Daniels supported the initiative, leading to the formation of an advisory committee comprising Johns Hopkins staff and BFSA members. This committee sought to build upon the earlier “History of African Americans at Johns Hopkins” project (2003–2008), expanding it into a more comprehensive and enduring tribute. The result was The Indispensable Role of Blacks at Johns Hopkins, an evolving representation of Black excellence at the university.
Historical Components & Visibility Efforts
The exhibit debuted as a free-standing, traveling display complemented by window decals featuring the images of Black men and women whose stories highlight the intertwined history of Black individuals and Johns Hopkins. These displays were reinforced by a dedicated website (bfsa.jhu.edu) and an internal site (https://jhu.campusgroups.com/bfsa/home/), where brief narratives provide further insight into the achievements of those honored.
In September 2017, to enhance the project’s visibility, organizers collaborated with various Johns Hopkins campuses to feature selected honorees prominently on the university’s walls. These visual tributes serve as a powerful affirmation of Johns Hopkins’ commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Join Us in Honoring Black Excellence
The continued growth of this initiative depends on your engagement and nominations. We invite you to help expand this historical archive by nominating outstanding individuals whose contributions align with the project’s mission. Review the criteria and submit nominations through our nomination form.
By participating, you help ensure that the legacies of Black excellence at Johns Hopkins are celebrated, preserved, and inspire generations to come. See this page for key milestones in the development of the IRB Project (2003-2017) which include a timeline and key achievements to reinforce the historical significance.