Theodore DeLaney, associate professor of history at Washington and Lee University, will head the University’s new African-American Studies program in the fall.
Delaney grew up in segregated Lexington, VA. Despite having been accepted to Morehouse College in 1961, his mother prevented him from attending out of fear of the violence associated with the deep south. DeLaney remained in Lexington and worked to support his family. He eventually became a janitor at Washington and Lee. Professors in the biology department noticed his aptitude and Delaney obtained a job as a lab technician. After much prodding from his wife and professors, he began to take classes in 1979. He obtained his degree four years later at the age of 40. After graduating, he was offered a position at the University history department.
TheStateOf . . . the Old South seems to be improving little by little. Congratulations to Dr. DeLaney for his accomplishments and the fine example he sets for all people.
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