Inman Edward Page (February 1853 – December 22, 1954) was a pioneering African American educator and college president who played a significant role in the development of higher education for Black Americans during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born into slavery, he overcame immense obstacles to achieve a distinguished career dedicated to advancing educational opportunities for his community.
Early Life and Education Inman Page was born enslaved in February 1853 in Warrenton, Virginia, to Elizabeth and David Page. Following the American Civil War and Emancipation, his family relocated to Washington, D.C. Page attended the Preparatory Department of Howard University before enrolling at the university itself. He later transferred to Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, where he distinguished himself academically. In 1877, he graduated from Brown University, earning Phi Beta Kappa honors, making him the first African American to achieve this distinction at Brown.
Career and Contributions After graduating, Page dedicated his life to education. His career included:
- Lincoln Institute (now Lincoln University of Missouri): He began his career teaching at the Lincoln Institute, serving as acting president for a period.
- Langston University (Oklahoma): Page's most impactful role was as the first president of the Oklahoma Colored Agricultural and Normal University (now Langston University) in Langston, Oklahoma. He was appointed in 1898 and served until 1916. Under his leadership, Langston grew significantly, establishing its curriculum, developing its campus infrastructure, and becoming a cornerstone of higher education for Black students in Oklahoma and the Southwest. He championed both classical academic studies and vocational training, believing in a comprehensive approach to education.
- Western University (Kansas): After leaving Langston, he served as president of Western University in Quindaro, Kansas, from 1916 to 1918, another historically Black institution.
- Public School System: Page also contributed to the public school system in Oklahoma City, serving as principal of Douglass High School from 1918 to 1928, and later working in various capacities within the city's Black schools.
Legacy Inman E. Page is remembered as a visionary leader and a dedicated educator. His efforts were instrumental in shaping the early development of Langston University, which remains a vital historically Black university today. His commitment to academic excellence and practical education provided countless African American students with opportunities for advancement during a period of widespread racial discrimination. He passed away at the age of 101 on December 22, 1954, leaving behind a profound legacy in American education.