60 Years of Integration at the University of Mississippi

The Mission Continues: Building Upon the Legacy

Watch a video about James Meredith. Produced by University Marketing & Communications.

In 1954, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Brown v. Board of Education, declaring separate schools “inherently unequal,” mandating integration of schools. Some schools and universities accepted integration easily, while others put up great resistance.

Almost a decade later, the University of Mississippi was ordered by the federal appeals court to admit its first Black student, James Meredith. Upon his arrival, a mob of more than 2,000 white people rioted, but Meredith never wavered.

“The integration of the University of Mississippi by James Meredith in 1962 is a pivotal moment in our history, and his courageous actions resonate across our community to this day. His example inspires our commitment to be a place where every community member feels welcome to pursue their dreams and flourish.”

– Glenn Boyce, Chancellor

With his admission, Meredith became one of the heroic figures of the American civil rights movement, succeeding against every legal, political and bureaucratic obstacle that blocked his path. His persistence opened the door for thousands, setting an example for every student of what even one individual can accomplish.

“If we want more equality, we must make a condition that will lead to this end.”

– James Meredith from The Price of Defiance

While these historic events serve as markers of how far we’ve come as a nation, state and university, they also push us to strive even harder to be a safe and welcoming campus for all students. The integration of Ole Miss in 1962 profoundly changed the university’s vision and character for the better, and we are committed to building upon that legacy. We see the next 60 years as a time to achieve more – to establish the highest levels of academic excellence, to prepare great leaders for every profession, to increase service projects across Mississippi and around the world and to open the doors of higher education to all students willing to do the work required by a flagship university, no matter their race, nationality, background or economic circumstance.

Explore the state of the university in 1962 and how far it has come today in pursuit of its unwavering commitment to change and progress. Learn more about James Meredith and his courageous fight for equality. Hear from other pivotal figures in the university’s history. Share your own experiences.

The Meredith Legacy

Watch a video about the legacy of James Meredith. Produced by the Southern Documentary Project.

James Meredith’s First Day in Class

Experience James Meredith’s first day of classes on campus.