Charles Harrison

The 1876 Marietta College graduation of Charles Sumner Harrison (1856-1912) held immediate significance; as one of eighteen men receiving diplomas that day, Harrison became the first black alumnus.

In the years following his college graduation, Harrison held positions teaching Latin and mathematics and serving as principal of a segregated high school. Having taken the Civil Service examination and scoring extremely high, he was called to Washington, D.C., in November, 1890, to assume a clerkship in the Medical Department of the Pension Office.

Two years later, to better prepare for this work, he began studies in the Medical School of Howard University, where he received an M.D. in 1895. Though his chief work continued to be with the Pension Office, he also practiced as a registered physician in the Washington area. At the time of his death in 1912, Harrison had reached "the highest appointive office but one" in the Medical Department of the Pension Office.

Charles Sumner Harrison Organization

The purpose of this organization is to bring more unity to Marietta College between minority students and other students and faculty. In order to increase unity on campus we have to create an environment where minority students can fit in without feeling uncomfortable.

This organization will represent the minority voice in a positive way and advocate for any changes that are needed within the boundaries of the college.

This organization will bring togetherness for the minority students and the campus and together we can close the gap. It is important that minority students feel that they have a voice and that they are important at Marietta College.

CSHO Annual Fashion Show

Founded in November 2005, the annual Charles Sumner Harrison Organization Fashion Show is a favorite event during the fall semester. Approximately 40 models—students and a few staff members—dress to impress a packed McDonough Auditorium. Planning and practice for the event starts months in advance and with all admission proceeds going to charity.

Founded in 1835, Marietta College is a private, liberal arts college located in southeast Ohio. Consistently ranked among the top Midwestern schools by U.S. News and World Report, Princeton Review and others, Marietta College's small and diverse student body enjoy opportunities rarely found at other liberal arts schools.

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