Date: April 1, 2008
Contact: Elizabeth Brigham, 240 506-3011
Contact: Ronald Stallings, 804 266-2021
Contact: Dave Ruth, 804 226-1981
On Saturday April 12 at 10 a.m., students enrolled in The College of William & Mary's highly regarded Sharpe Community Service Program will honor Maggie L. Walker by beautifying the St. Luke Building's exterior, at 900 St. James St., Richmond, Virginia. Students will remove vines, weeds and litter around the building.
The Sharpe Community Service Program features intense study and service learning in a year-long seminar for first year College of William & Mary students. The College is located in Williamsburg, Virginia. For the past four years, students have researched Mrs. Walker and her times, developing a great appreciation for her work. “Mrs. Walker is an amazing woman, in her insights, her determination and the support she gave to the African American community. The St. Luke Building stands as a landmark to the accomplishments of the organization she led for 35 years,” explained Sharpe scholar Amy Nicole Clinger.
Mr. Ronald Stallings, owner of the building, welcomed their effort. “I’ve gotten to know these students over the past three years and have been impressed by their commitment to racial equality and economic success for all.” Supplies and equipment will be donated by Mr. Stallings.
At 2:00 pm, the students will present a program, “Lifting as We Climb: Maggie Walker, the Independent Order of St. Luke and the St. Luke Building” at the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, 600 N. 2nd St., Richmond, Virginia. This dynamic presentation will provide insight into the roles of the Independent Order of St. Luke and the St. Luke Building during the Jim Crow era.
The students' work was recognized by David Ruth, Acting Superintendent, Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site. He commented: “We know how much work these students have done to be able to present such an interesting program which will share that proud history with the community and the public.” The public is invited to the 2 p.m. program.
The St. Luke Building is currently closed to the public. More information is available about Mrs. Maggie Walker and the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site at www.nps.gov/mawa.
For more information contact: Mr. Ronald Stallings, 804.266.2021 or Ms. Elizabeth Brigham, Sharpe Fellow at 240-506-3011 or embrig@wm.edu.
