In 1964, Rice University welcomed its first Black student, Raymond Johnson ’69, launching a new chapter in the university’s history. As we celebrate more than 60 years of Black student life at Rice, we recognize the achievements and lasting contributions of generations of Black Owls who have helped shape Rice into the vibrant community and world-class university it is today.
The 1964 Circle invites alumni and friends to mark our shared history through continued investment in path-breaking research and innovative programs supporting student life at Rice. These donations honor the trailblazers who paved the way for the next generation of leaders and ensures their stories continue to inspire, uplift and endure.
Honor the legacy. Invest in Tomorrow.
By giving to one or both of the following funds through the 1964 Circle, you expand opportunity, advance scholarship and ensure that every Owl can thrive.*
- The ARUBA Legacy Endowment provides long-term support for Black students at Rice through student programs, retention initiatives and professional development.
- The Center for African and African American Studies Fund is Rice’s primary location for curriculum and research related to Africa and to people of African descent in the Americas and beyond.
BECOME A FOUNDING MEMBER
When you make a leadership gift of $1,964 or more, you join the 1964 Circle as a founding member. Benefits include special engagement opportunities with beneficiary departments and recognition during ARUBA Weekend.
*Programs supported through this campaign are open to all students and are administered in accordance with university policies and applicable law, with funds advancing student engagement, leadership development, academic programming and research in alignment with Rice’s mission.
Celebrating More Than 60 Years of Black Student Life at Rice
In 1964, Rice University changed forever when Ph.D. student Raymond Johnson ’69, Rice’s first Black student, enrolled in the university’s mathematics program. His enrollment marked the beginning of a profound transformation.
In the years that followed, Jacqueline McCauley and Charles Edward Freeman III became the first Black undergraduate students to enroll at Rice, while Theodore “Ted” Marshall Henderson ’70 and Linda Faye Williams ’70 were the first undergraduates to earn their Rice degrees. More than 60 years later, Rice honors the strength, resilience and achievements of generations of Black Owls whose presence has shaped the university into the vibrant, inclusive community it is today.
Giving to Rice
Development & Alumni Relations
P.O. BOX 1892
Houston, Texas 77251-1892
Phone: 713-348-4991
Email: giving@rice.edu
