James Madison High

SOUTH DALLAS LEADERS URGE MAVERICKS TO STAY DOWNTOWN

Elected officials, pastors, and business leaders gathered at City Hall Thursday, calling on the team to remain in the urban core and strengthen Dallas’ broader economic future.

https://dallasexpress.com/city/south-dallas-community-leaders-urge-mavericks-to-reconsider-proposed-move-to-far-north-dallas/

🌟 Hall of Fame Highlight 🌟
Established to honor excellence and leadership, the African American Education Archives and History Program’s Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have shaped African American education in Dallas County since 1902. Join us in the weeks ahead as we highlight their contributions and enduring influence on our community.

✨2005 Inductee | Dr. Joseph L. Atkins

An inductee into the African American Education Archives and History Program Hall of Fame in 2005, Joseph Atkins, a Dallas native, became a catalyst for change whose courage helped open the doors of higher education to thousands of Black students who followed in his footsteps.

After graduating from Lincoln High School in June 1954, Atkins applied for admission to the University of North Texas but was denied entry because of segregation. His determination to challenge this injustice sparked a landmark civil rights lawsuit that led a federal court to order the university to end its segregationist policies. As a result of his efforts, the University of North Texas became one of the first colleges and universities in the South to desegregate.

Unable to attend UNT at the time, Atkins earned a bachelor’s degree in English and journalism from the University of Texas at El Paso. In 1967, he returned to the University of North Texas to earn a Master of Education degree.

In December 2004, the University of North Texas concluded its yearlong celebration of the 50th anniversary of desegregation by honoring Atkins as a “barrier-breaking alumnus” and awarding him an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.

Atkins’ trailblazing legacy extended far beyond higher education. From 1963 to 1974, he taught at James Madison High School and North Dallas High School, where he inspired generations of students to become engaged, well-rounded citizens and helped prepare many for college and future success. His commitment to education, equality, and opportunity continues to leave a lasting impact on the Dallas community and beyond.

📍 Come visit the Educators Hall of Fame exhibit at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave., Dallas — open Tuesday–Saturday.

🎷 Volunteer Call — Join the volunteer team for the 9th Riverfront Jazz Festival!

📅 September 4–6, 2026
📍 Historic Fair Park

Apply online today: tbaalriverfrontjazzfestival.org or scan the QR code to sign up!

📖 ️ Intern at one of Washington, D.C.'s most exciting museums!

Our museum provides a dynamic learning environment and access to supportive supervisors who help interns reach their educational and professional goals. Interns can gain practical museum skills and program development experience in various traditional and non-traditional museum careers.

"I’ve been very grateful for opportunities to explore my interest related to museum work including curation, collecting and museum education." - Jamie M., 2025

Learn more and apply before June 15: https://s.si.edu/434KJ4x