Rufus B. Atwood

Noted as one of Kentucky's most famous African American citizens, Hickman's Rufus B. Atwood served as president of Kentucky State College from 1929 to 1962. During his tenure at the school, he led the battle for desegregated education and improved educational opportunities for black students across the state. In 1962, he became the first African American to receive the University of Kentucky's highest honor, the Sullivan Medallion. He was also awarded the Bronze Star for bravery in 1918 for service during W.W. I.

Hickman, Kentucky · United States