Established on March 12, 1897, in Langston, Oklahoma, Langston University stands as Oklahoma’s sole historically Black college or university.

In response to the exclusion of African Americans from higher education institutions in the state, the Black community in Langston rallied together to fund the establishment of an educational institution where their children could receive instruction and thrive.

Originally named the Colored Agricultural and Normal University, the institution’s mission encompassed the education of both male and female students in areas such as agriculture, mechanics, and industrial arts. The school opened on September 3, 1898, with just 41 students.

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