In May 2012, the Black Faculty and Staff Association (BFSA) at Johns Hopkins University, in collaboration with Ronald J. Daniels, the 14th president of Johns Hopkins University, and Development and Alumni Relations (formerly the Office of External Affairs and Development), inaugurated The Indispensable Role of Blacks at Johns Hopkins project. This initiative serves as a profound acknowledgment of the critical yet historically overlooked contributions of Black students, faculty, and staff to the university’s evolution and excellence. It builds upon the foundational work of the History of African Americans at Johns Hopkins project, which was active from 2003 to 2008, expanding the narrative to provide a more comprehensive and enduring tribute.
Both projects were meticulously designed to document, preserve, and celebrate the invaluable impact of Black individuals whose perseverance, scholarship, leadership, and service have shaped Johns Hopkins into the institution it is today. More than just an exhibit, The Indispensable Role of Blacks at Johns Hopkins stands as a living testament to resilience, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence against historical adversity.
The 2012 project launched as both a traveling and online exhibit, reaching across all Johns Hopkins campuses to ensure widespread engagement. The individuals honored—trailblazers in medicine, research, education, public service, and other fields—were formally recognized during the BFSA’s annual Juneteenth Celebration. Their stories not only highlight past achievements but also inspire future generations of Black scholars and professionals.
The BFSA remains committed to expanding this historical record by inducting new honorees into the online exhibit. We invite the Johns Hopkins community—students, alumni, faculty, and staff—to actively participate in this ongoing initiative by submitting nominations and sharing untold stories that deserve recognition. In doing so, we continue to illuminate the indispensable role of Black excellence at Johns Hopkins, ensuring that these legacies are celebrated, preserved, and serve as a beacon for generations to come.
Nominate an Individual for The Indispensable Role of Blacks at Johns Hopkins
To recognize and honor individuals whose contributions have had a lasting impact, we invite nominations for The Indispensable Role of Blacks at Johns Hopkins project. Please review the criteria below before submitting a nomination.
Eligibility Requirements
Nominees must be:
Selection Criteria
Nominees may be faculty, staff, alumni, students, or community partners with an active or historical connection to Johns Hopkins University. Nominees considered for induction into the IRB should exemplify and demonstrate excellence, measurable impact, and outstanding contributions through one or more of the following areas and attributes and areas:
For example:
Submission Requirements
All nominations will be evaluated using a comprehensive rubric reflecting both the depth and breadth of contributions across the criteria listed above must include:
By submitting a nomination, you help preserve and celebrate the vital legacy of Black excellence at Johns Hopkins. We encourage thoughtful, well-supported nominations that reflect the spirit, excellence, and legacy that this honor represents.
Nominations close in October. The Nominations Committee meets in November/December to make selections for the new class of inductees. The induction ceremony is in conjunction with the next Juneteenth Celebration.
Any nominations submitted after selections have been made for the year will be considered for the next round of inductions. Together, we honor those whose work, presence, and purpose have truly been indispensable to the story of Johns Hopkins and beyond.