Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) honored President Emeritus and class of 1946 alumnus Dr. Prezell R. Robinson at Raleigh’s 36th Annual Black History Celebration, hosted by the College Park, Idlewild, and Tarboro Road Community Center, recognizing his historic leadership and lifelong contributions to higher education.

“Dr. Prezell Robinson’s legacy is woven into the very foundation of Saint Augustine’s University,” said SAU Board of Trustees Chair Sophie Gibson. “For nearly three decades, his visionary leadership strengthened this institution and expanded opportunity for generations of students. We are honored to celebrate his extraordinary life and the enduring example he continues to set for the SAU community.”

Dr. Robinson, now 105 years old, served as the eighth president of SAU from 1967 to 1995, guiding the institution through nearly three decades of growth and national recognition. His leadership prepared generations of students for leadership and service.

“Dr. Prezell Robinson’s leadership helped shape SAU into the institution that so many generations of students proudly call their alma mater,” said SAU Interim President Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson. “His life is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of education and the enduring role historically Black colleges and universities play in advancing opportunity, leadership, and service.”

The celebration not only brought together elected officials, alumni leaders, and Raleigh community members but also served as a significant tribute to Dr. Robinson’s lasting impact on Saint Augustine’s University and the city he shaped.

“This is where we live. This is where we were born,” said SAU alumna Ms. Octavia Rainey, ‘78, community activist and organizer of the event. “So, we pay tribute to our neighborhood. We pay tribute to our business. We pay tribute to our churches and, of course, to Saint Augustine’s University.”

Among those offering tributes were U.S. Congresswoman Deborah Ross, NC Senator Dan Blue, Wake County Commissioner Tara Waters, Raleigh City Council members Corey Branch and Stormie Forte, and Shaw University President Dr. Paulette R. Dillard, who recognized Dr. Robinson’s contributions to education, civic leadership, and the advancement of opportunity in North Carolina. A message on behalf of SAU Interim President Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson was presented during the event, recognizing Dr. Robinson’s enduring legacy.

The program also featured reflections from the SAU Class of 1975, and Ms. JeSanne Robinson Johnson, ’88, an alumna and the daughter of Dr. Robinson, gave personal remarks honoring her father’s dedication to education and his lifelong commitment to uplifting students through learning.

“When people ask me about my father, they often talk about his accomplishments, nearly three decades he served as President of Saint Augustine’s, the academic programs he expanded, the buildings he modernized, and the accreditation he strengthened,” Johnson said. “All of that is true, and it matters deeply, but today they ask him, and I’m proud to say, how is he doing? And he’s doing great for 105.”

Dr. Robinson’s story is deeply intertwined with Saint Augustine’s University. After joining the faculty, he rose through the ranks to become president, serving one of the longest tenures in university history. His leadership reinforced SAU’s mission of preparing students for lives of purpose and impact.

As SAU builds on its tradition of leadership and service, Dr. Robinson’s life remains a testament to the lasting power of education and the vital significance of historically Black colleges and universities.

Click here to view the full gallery of the Black History Program