In 1900, Otelia Cromwell became the first African American to graduate from Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts. She went on to become a noted scholar and educator. Cromwell died in 1972 at the age of 98.
A new 16-minute video documentary on the life of Otelia Cromwell was shown for the first time at Smith College during the college’s 25th celebration of Otelia Cromwell Day. Each year on Otelia Cromwell Day, Smith College cancels afternoon classes and students participate in workshops, panel discussions, and cultural events focusing on issues of race and diversity.
The video, entitled The Life and Legacy of Otelia Cromwell, was produced by Kate Lee, senior media producer in educational technology services at Smith College. It can be seen below.
