Celebrating Our Community
Our Heroes
We honor the individuals and organizations whose dedication preserves the soul of Black Appalachia. These are the teachers, leaders, and partners whose collective vision ensures our rich cultural heritage continues to thrive and inspire future generations.
Mr. David Harris joined Dr. Cicero Fain, III, to conduct a Black History Trolley Tour of Huntington, West Virginia, April 16, 2026.
Community Heroes
Celebrating the individuals whose passion and dedication preserve the rich cultural landscape of Black Appalachia. These are the voices leading our progress and honoring our heritage.
Dr. Cicero M. Fain, III
History Professor & Assistant Provost
Dr. Cicero M. Fain, III, is the author of Black Huntington: An Appalachian Story and lead co-editor of the forthcoming Black Appalachia: Race, Place, and Identity as well as a Professor of History and Assistant Provost of Access & Opportunity at Marshall University.
Professor Burnis R. Morris
Journalism Professor & Woodson Lyceum Director
Professor Burnis R. Morris is the author of Carter G. Woodson: History, the Black Press, and Public Relations as well as a professor in the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism & Mass Communications at Marshall University. He is a Distinguished Drinko Fellow and has served as Director of the Dr. Carter G. Woodson Lyceum at Marshall since 2016. He also chaired the Black History Centennial Committee and organized the American Milestone Symposium.
Dr. Montserrat Miller
Professor Emerita of History & Former Executive Director
Dr. Montserrat Miller is the author of Feeding Barcelona, 1714-1975: Public Food Markets, Social Networks, and Consumer Culture and a Professor Emerita of History at Marshall University. She is a Distinguished Drinko Fellow, and she served as Executive Director of the John Deaver Drinko Academy at Marshall from 2018 to 2026. Dr. Miller served on the Black History Centennial Committee and organized the American Milestone Symposium.