In a grand celebration marking Spelman College’s homecoming, alumna LaTanya Richardson Jackson and her husband, actor Samuel L. Jackson, returned to campus to inaugurate the newly renovated LaTanya Richardson Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson Performing Arts Center.
The couple’s $5 million donation not only transformed the Rockefeller Fine Arts Building but also set a new milestone as the largest alumnae donation in Spelman’s history. Joined by Hollywood stars, Spelman faculty, and fellow alumni, the Jacksons unveiled a mural capturing their journey and lifelong dedication to the arts.
The celebration, held on October 24, was both a nostalgic return and a monumental tribute to the Jacksons’ legacy.
A Transformative Gift to Inspire Future Generations
The Jacksons’ vision for the center, realized through their personal efforts and a historic donation, has revitalized the fine arts building into a state-of-the-art facility. Their commitment reflects a passion for the arts rooted in their formative years at Spelman and Morehouse Colleges, where the two first met and fostered their artistic talents.
LaTanya, Spelman Class of 1971, noted, “Everything I know, all of my beginnings were in this building. It is an honor for us to help support the school’s vital mission, and to ensure that it continues to serve as a space of inspiration and training for the next generation of leaders.”
The Jacksons played an instrumental role in raising additional support for the renovation, bringing total funds raised to $17.3 million. This generous support has given the campus a modern space where young artists can develop their craft.
Unveiling the Mural: Honoring an Artistic Legacy
The dedication ceremony featured the unveiling of a stunning black-and-white mural by Atlanta artist Quintin Jackson. This mural, filled with 135 images, honors the Jacksons’ remarkable journey, including their time in the Morehouse-Spelman Players theatrical group. The mural captures significant moments in their lives, celebrating their contributions to theater, film, and the arts.
“May the unveiling of this glorious mural be an inspiration to the beautiful artists past, present, and future who walk these halls,” LaTanya expressed during the event.
Designed with historical care, the mural was the result of a year-long collaboration involving archivist consultations, research, and discovery of rare images and playbills. With input from former Spelman Professor Dr. Carlton Molette, the mural stands as a lasting tribute to the Jacksons’ influence on the arts.
A Star-Studded Celebration Reflecting Community and Impact
The dedication drew notable personalities, including director Spike Lee, author Pearl Cleage, former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, and cast members from the upcoming Piano Lesson film, which stars Jackson. Additionally, Spelman alumna Danielle Deadwyler joined the celebration alongside students, faculty, and supporters. The event concluded with an electrifying performance by Spelman’s Arts Division, showcasing the college’s robust performing arts programs and leaving guests in awe of the students’ talent.
“Tonight’s celebration heralds a vibrant new era for the arts at Spelman, where performances and presentations will now flourish in a cutting-edge facility designed to inspire creativity and excellence,” said Spelman College Interim President Rosalind ‘Roz’ Brewer. “LaTanya and Samuel’s love story began on stage at Spelman, and their remarkable careers serve as a beacon of inspiration.”
Spelman’s Investments in Arts and Innovation
Spelman’s dedication to the arts goes beyond the Jackson Performing Arts Center. In early 2025, the college will unveil the $86 million Mary Schmidt Campbell Center for Innovation & the Arts, further solidifying Spelman’s role as a leader in arts and innovation. This new facility will support programs in dance, documentary filmmaking, photography, and theater, among others, offering expanded resources for students.
Since 2015, Spelman has introduced five new arts-focused majors and minors, including documentary filmmaking, art history, and curatorial studies. The college is also excited to welcome Barbara Chirinos, the new artistic director for both the Jackson Performing Arts Center and the Center for Innovation & the Arts, who will guide Spelman’s flourishing arts community.
These advancements affirm Spelman’s commitment to integrating the arts with technology, broadening creative opportunities for its students, and fostering leadership in the performing arts sector.
