In Fall 1963, seven black students made history when they enrolled at Nicholls State University. The seven students were the first step towards integration at Nicholls.
“Decades later, the graduates would return to this tree to reflect on its importance,” the university said. “Now, we reflect on this historic day, a symbolic bench for us to sit and marvel at the growth of progress branching deep into the soil and high into the air.”
On Sept. 17, the 60th Anniversary of those students’ first day, Nicholls commemorated their feat with a plaque and a bench.
“The Nicholls Student Government Association along with the support of the entire campus will commemorate that historic day with a plaque at the tree where those students found solace,” the university said.
Celebrations and commemorations of Nicholls integration anniversary will continue this semester.