HU Mourns the Loss of Rosa Parks

Hampton University mourns the loss of one of its own, Rosa Parks, who was known as an influential figure in America's civil rights movement. Parks passed away on Monday, Oct. 24, at the age of 92. Parks held the position of hostess at HU's, then known as Hampton Institute, Holly Tree Inn and Dining Hall for one year, beginning in September 1957.

On Dec. 1, 1955, Parks was jailed for refusing to offer her bus seat to a white man in Montgomery, Ala. This act, which triggered a 381-day bus system boycott in Montgomery, became known as a integral part in the nation's civil rights movement.

Two years later, Parks accepted President Alonzo G. Moron's invitation to work at Hampton Institute's Holly Tree Inn and Dining Hall. "I would like very much to have you come to work for us at Hampton as hostess at the Holly Tree Inn… The job is not physically taxing, but it does call for someone with sufficient tact, good sense, and courtesy to represent the College to the wide variety of guests who visit the campus," wrote Moron.

As hostess, Parks was responsible for the operation and supervision of staff at the Holly Tree Inn and Dining Hall and two other building occupied by single members of the faculty. She met guests who visited the campus needing accommodations at the Inn and looked after them throughout their stay.

HU extends condolences and prayers to Parks' family and friends.