Black History Month is a time to remember the influential figures who made history as trailblazers and visionaries, like Theotis Robinson Jr.
He was one of the first Black students to attend the University of Tennessee, after starting classes in January 1961. He wasn't able to simply walk into class though, since the university system had a policy that did not allow Black students to attend the school.
However, Theotis fought that policy. He deferred his original enrollment into Knoxville College to enroll at the University of Tennessee, writing the application letter from his parents' kitchen table. After his application was denied, he requested a meeting with the admissions office.
He later met with the university's president — Andrew Holt. There he said that he wanted to attend the school, and Holt promised to take the matter to the Board of Trustees.
During a special meeting on Nov. 18, 1960, the board admitted Robinson and changed the policy to allow Black students into the university. On Jan. 3, 1961, Robinson was joined by Willie Mae Gillespie and Charles Blair to register for classes.
In fall 2000, Robinson was named vice president for equity and diversity — 40 years after the board changed its policy to allow him to attend. He was also a charter inductee into the UT African-American Hall of Fame and served on the Knoxville City Council from 1970-1977.