COLUMBIA, S.C. – Pioneering Educator and Civil Rights Figure James L. Solomon, Jr. Passes Away
James L. Solomon, Jr., a prominent figure in the desegregation of higher education in South Carolina, died on Friday at the age of 94. Solomon was one of only three African American students who bravely enrolled at the University of South Carolina (USC) in 1963, a year that marked a significant turning point in the history of education and civil rights in the U.S.
A Trailblazer in Education
Born in a time when racial segregation was deeply ingrained in Southern society, Solomon pursued higher education at USC amid great social challenges. He became the first African American to enroll in the university’s graduate program in mathematics while he was a professor at Morris College in the 1960s. Solomon’s courage helped pave the way for future generations of students of color seeking education and opportunity.
Career and Public Service
Beyond his educational achievements, Solomon had a distinguished career in public service. He held various positions within the state government, including serving as a state agency director and a division director at the Commission on Higher Education. In addition, Solomon made history by becoming the first African American elected to public office in Sumter County, South Carolina, since the Reconstruction era, when he was elected to the Sumter District 17 School Board.
A Lasting Legacy
In April 2024, USC honored Solomon and his fellow African American students with a statue commemorating their courageous act of desegregation. This tribute serves as a reminder of their significant contributions to the university and the greater civil rights movement.
Family and Community Reactions
The Solomon family announced his passing and expressed deep gratitude for the prayers and sympathies extended to them during this period of mourning. They recognized his impact not only on those who knew him personally but also on the broader community of South Carolina.
Arrangements and Public Memorial
Funeral arrangements for James L. Solomon, Jr. are being managed by Leevy’s Funeral Home in Columbia, S.C. The family is expected to hold a public memorial to celebrate his life and the indelible mark he left on education and civil rights in South Carolina.
Final Thoughts
James L. Solomon, Jr.’s life served as a beacon of hope and change. His efforts to foster inclusivity in academia and his role in public service not only reshaped the landscape of education in the region but also laid the groundwork for future advancements in civil rights. His commitment to equity and education will be remembered by many as a significant chapter in the ongoing fight for justice and equality.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
