Langston President honors Black military service, renews partnership to support veterans

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LANGSTON, Okla.–Langston University President Dr. Ruth Ray Jackson, a proud daughter and wife of military veterans, took the podium at the Wm Conrad Veterans Memorial Gardens’ Veterans Day Program Monday.

Dr. Jackson shared powerful reflections on Black military service and the profound role of families who sacrifice alongside their loved ones in uniform. Her keynote address aligned with the event’s theme, “A Legacy of Loyalty and Service – It’s a Family Affair,” highlighting the resilience of military families and their contributions.

“It is not just the soldier, sailor, airman, or marine who serves—it’s also the parents, siblings, spouses, and children,” Dr. Jackson said, “who endure separation, uncertainty, and sometimes heartbreaking loss. These families teach us what resilience looks like.”

With gratitude, she acknowledged the unique challenges and enduring contributions of Black veterans, who often served their country with unmatched loyalty, even in the face of systemic discrimination.

Langston University presidents honors veterans with renewed partnership

Highlighting the valor of the Buffalo Soldiers, Tuskegee Airmen, and others, she reminded attendees that Langston University’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the courage of Black Americans in uniform. “The American story is incomplete without acknowledging the sacrifices of African Americans in service,” Dr. Jackson said.

Following her address, Dr. Jackson joined Stewart Williams, founder of the Wm Conrad Veterans Memorial Gardens, in signing a two-year renewal of their partnership Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Initially signed in 2023, the MOU forges collaboration between Langston University and the Veterans Memorial Gardens, opening doors for students to engage in volunteer projects and internships while supporting veterans through 2026.

The program also included stirring performances from the LU Concert Choir and heartfelt tributes to Purple Heart recipients, such as Rev. Dr. Douglas C. Robinson of Oklahoma City and Mr. Earnest H. Moore of Langston.

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