Carver Legacy Series

George Washington Carver Legacy Series

ColeThe George Washington Carver Lecture and Medal Presentation are a part of the George Washington Carver Legacy Series. The program pays tribute to Carver’s legacy at Simpson and the college’s commitment to diversity throughout its history.

Simpson College will hold a special event Feb. 8th at 7 p.m. in Smith Chapel to present Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole with the 2011 Carver Medal.

Dr. Cole will receive the 4th Annual George Washington Carver Medal and lead the 38th Annual George Washington Carver lecture series.

Simpson College established the Carver Medal to annually recognize an outstanding individual whose life exemplifies the commitment and vision of the service of George Washington Carver.

A reception will be held in Carver Hall Immediately following Dr. Cole’s lecture and the presentation of the Carver Medal.

In addition to the evening presentation, a luncheon will be held earlier in the day at 11:30 a.m. at the Embassy Club located downtown Des Moines.

Dr. Cole is currently serving as the director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art after being appointed in March 2009. The National Museum of African Art is the only museum in the United States dedicated to the collection, conservation, study and exhibition of traditional and contemporary African art.

In 1987 she made history by becoming the first African-American woman to serve as President of Spelman College. She also served as president of Bennett College from 2002-2007.

Cole earned a doctorate degree (1967) and a master's degree (1959) in anthropology from Northwestern University and a bachelor's degree (1957) in sociology from Oberlin College.


  Past Carver Lecturers/Honorees.

Last Updated: 11/18/11