The Gift that Keeps on Giving
Feb. 6, 2017
From L to R: Then college President Robert L. Hess, then head of the Black Alumni Association Marcia Goldman '57, sculptor Bo Walker, and his wife Barbara Walker.
In September 1985, the Black Alumni Association of Brooklyn College bestowed a gift to their alma mater, a bust of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr.
"The officers of the association felt that a bust of Dr. King would help fulfill an obligation we have to current and future generations of black students at Brooklyn College," said Marcia Goldman ’57, then-president of the association. "We wanted to make a strong statement of support for their educational and career aspirations."
Prominently located at the foot of the stairs leading to the college’s library, the bronze bust today serves as an inspiration for all students. It was sculpted by Brooklyn artist Bo Walker, who was known for his commemorative busts of black political and cultural leaders. He also created a bust of Paul Robeson for the Columbia University campus. Walker was given a presidential medal from the college in 1985 in recognition of his contribution to the black community.
