The University of Alabama, Vivian Malone Jones Tribute

Vivian Malone Jones was the University of Alabama’s first African American graduate and one of two African American students to first attend the University in 1963. Her courage has served as inspiration to members of the UA community since the day she first enrolled at the Capstone.

On October 13, 2005, Jones died at an Atlanta hospital after suffering a stroke.

To commemorate the lasting impact Vivian Malone Jones has had on the UA campus and our country, the University of Alabama would like to ask those who have been inspired by her to submit their own stories, tributes, or messages of thanks for display as a living tribute to one of our nation's greatest civil rights pioneers. Submissions will be posted here for all to read.

Tributes written personally at the UA memorial service for Vivian Malone Jones on Oct. 20 have been forwarded to her family.

SHARE YOUR TRIBUTE TO VIVIAN MALONE JONES

"I was amazed at Vivian's ability to remain calm in the midst of all the furor around her. She was graceful and poised. Sometimes I wanted to shout out my disgust, but she was always quiet. She chose not to acknowledge the rude behavior of students who refused to sit with her. As she strolled to class alone, she seemed to be in her own world, oblivious to the stares and remarks of others. Her courage was remarkable."

Alice Dunn Phillips

"Thank you for your courage and persistence... I'm sure I benefited in more ways that I realize."

"Thank you for all the hard work, dedication, and perservence that you've shown throughout your life. May your legacy live on in the hearts of us all for your bravery and achievement. Thank you and may God Bless your soul."

"Thanks to Vivian, my daughter was able to attend and graduate from the University. Her life has been enriched in ways it might not have been because of her unselfish sacrifice."

"I want thank you for all that you have done for the African-American race and the human race. Your courage for taking steps and dedication for withstanding will always be remembered."

"It is with sincere gratitude and the upmost respect that I proclaim my personal appreciation for Vivian Malone Jones. Her courage and dedication to the cause is the reason why African Americans students have the opportunity to obtain an education at this institution."

"I remember the first event I attended at Foster Auditorium as a Black UA student in 1975. I will always remember role models like her. She has always inspired me. Thanks!"

Dr. Phyllis N. Levert

"I remember hearing the story of Vivian Malone Jones as a child in elementary school and as a teenager in high school. That was inspiration to me to attend the University of Alabama, also. I can remember the day that I walked across the stage at Coleman Coliseum and thinking about how Mrs. Jones and Arthurene Lucy made that possible. Thanks for giving me and many others the opportunity! I greatly appreciate it!!"

"As a young white child on the cusp of maturing, I witnessed Arthurene Lucy as she stood in the door of UA. I cried at the ugliness surrounding her brave walk to the door of UA. I even spent my allowance on a bracelet which I mailed to her at the University. It was returned by the UA mail department as "undeliverable". It broke my heart!

"So to Arthurene Lucy and Vivian Malone Jones, I tip my hat for showing me bravery when all else I saw was hatred. It changed my life for the better and made me realize that people are people, children are children, and no matter what else may happen, the spirit and exuberance of the human desire for freedom cannot and will not be extinguished.

"Thank you for your stand. May God bless you always and may others walk in your footsteps with the grace, dignity and resolve you showed."

Ginger Hammond Boatwright

"I am thankful everyday for the sacrifice Mrs. Jones made that has been beneficial for minorities attending the University of Alabama. Because of Mrs. Vivian Jones, I will graduate May 13, 2006 with a MSW degree in social work. Without her, this milestone would not have been possible. I thank you Mrs. Jones and I know you are rejoicing in Heaven."

James Anthony Hudson

"Because of the courage exhibited by Vivian Jones, I am encouraged to continue to walk in her path of justice for all."

"During my stint at the Capstone, I attended the 40th anniversary of the Stand in the Schoolhouse Door. I heard Mrs. Jones speak and her words for the audience were both inspiring and thought provoking. If it weren't for her bravery, I'm not certain that I would have been able to attend the University. I will always be eternally grateful to Mrs. Jones and may God rest her soul."

Cassandra N. Mickens, B.A. Journalism 2005

"Thank you to Vivian Malone Jones for pioneering the way for African American students of today."

"Thank you Ms. Jones, you have been a blessing to so many. Your courage serves as an inspiration to all."

"I am very grateful for Mrs. Jones because without her courage and determination to receive an education from UA it would not have been possible for me as a black woman or any black person to graduate from the university. It took her and God to stand in the schoolhouse doors in 1963 and I know that she is in heaven knowing that she made it possible for me to walk onto UA campus and earn my degree. Thank you Mrs. Jones."

Sabrina L. Crowder, B.A. History 2005

"I would like to say that Vivian Malone Jones paved the way for African American women like myself to open doors and break down barriers to ensure all have an equal chance at education. Vivian Malone Jones is a True Trailblazer in her own right. I thank Ms. Jones for the courage she had to enter into the University of Alabama schoolhouse doors in 1963."

"I am very grateful for Mrs. Jones courage because without her fortitude I probably would not have had the opportunity to be UA Homecoming Queen in 1989. My election was extremely controversial and stressful but during the entire ordeal I often thought about what Mrs. Jones went through and I gained strength. Be assured that Mrs. Jones is in her Father's house. She will be greatly missed."

Kimberly Ashley-Whittaker

"The biblical scripture stating: "Let the work I've done, Speak for me!" is truly a significant cliche` representing your life's journey. Thanks to our Heavenly Father for blessing this University with your presence and for allowing your determination to succeed to serve as a pathway for others who were afraid to conquer the unforeseeable."

LaParry T. Howell, M.P.A

"I am grateful for Mrs. Vivian Malone Jones' actions and its impact on African American students attending UA. Her steps on that fateful day allowed my two daughter the opportunity to graduate from UA. Thank you Mrs. Vivian Malone Jones. You will always be remembered."

Shernevelye Draper Hill

"Vivian Malone Jones was a real American hero who devoted her life to God, justice and America. She fought for equal opportunity in education and also strove for clean air and safe water while working at the Environmental Protection Agency."

"By walking through those infamous doors, you encouraged others to meet obstacles with courage and conviction and most of all to succeed. Thank you for reminding us that dreams for a better world can come true."

"Mrs. Jones' courage has been and will continue to be an inspiration to not only minorities but Americans everything. Thanks be to God, for Jones and so many other African Americans that have paved the way for all students of color."

"As a student at UA (1974-78), Ms. Jones visited the campus for Women's Week, an event sponsored by the Association for Women Students. She spoke to a group of faculty and students. She was so poised and so strong. She paved the way many years before but was back contributing again. I was very impressed. She was an inspiring, exceptional roll model for all female students."

"As a ten-year old growing up in Tuscaloosa, I remember very well the activities surrounding the attempted enrollment of Arthurene Lucy at the University of Alabama. The same courage I witnessed from Arthurene Lucy was duplicated by Vivian, as she stood proudly at the entrance of the University.

"Black women have been the "backbone" of our face since arrival on this continent. As previous trailblazers before her, she has contributed tremendously to the accomplishments of our race to date.

"This is an emotional time for me because I see her as I saw Wilma Rudolph carrying the burdens of our race on her back but never quitting the race... but wins against heavy odds.

"Even though I did not know Vivian personally, I did know her because there was no way to separate her cause from the cause of every Black "in those days" from our common cause...equality.

"The sad part to all of this is that the vast majority of our young blacks today have not heard of Vivian Malone. This is a sad epitaph to us as adults in keeping the cause alive, because it's beyond time for us to stop being "lulled into a false sense of security that everying has changed and we as a people are ok."

"Every time someone like Vivian dies, I am reminded that how far "we have not come". But her legacy shall always live in my heart and was in the heart of my daughter prior to her dealth in December, 2004.

"My prayers are with you, the family and friends, as we celebrate the life of another brave black Princess."

"It is without a shadow of a doubt that we (former students of the University) are who we are because of Vivian Malone Jones. She was a quiet storm that stirred our hearts and place the desire to attend the University. It is because of what she stood for and her perserverance that we are able to represent the flagship of the state, the University. Although, Vivian has gone on, she leaves a large legacy of success for us to follow. You certainly taught us how to sustain and be patient. Thanks Vivian!"

"You demonstrated to the world what is possible when you simply prepare yourself, believe in yourself, and trust God completely. Thank you for not only showing us the way but for leading the way."

"Thank you for your wisdom! You taught us all that no victory is without effort. We are truly thankful to uphold your dream, your spirit and thrist for knowledge."

"I was blessed to have worked with Mrs. Jones at Environmental Protection Agency while attending Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. I will never forget the day I met Mrs. Jones and how she encouraged me to continue to do my best. I received my Education Specialist degree from the University of Alabama and has just recently decided to complete my doctorate in Education at the University of Alabama. What a Lady,an American, a Leader, and a brave soul. We will miss her and we all loved her. Thank you Vivian for paving the way for all of us. My daughter entered Auburn University 30 years."

Joyce Hutchins, Ed.S
University of Alabama 1998

"Vivian paved the way for the future educational endeavors of African Americans. Often when people reflect on the fact that U of A is the school that did not want African Americans to attend, I refer to the way maker, Mrs. Jones. Her courageousness allowed me to attend one of the greatest institutions of higher learning in the world. It makes me proud to be an alumnus of a University with such profound history. History is of utmost importance for reflection, but most of all it propels us to our destiny for the future."

LeCretia Snow Jackson
Class of '94, BA in Communications

"The courage and tenacity shown by Vivian Malone in 1963 should remind all of us of the sacrifices paid by many to create and secure our futures. She was then and remained throughout her life a model upon whose shoulders I have stood in many aspects of my life. I trust that young people, of all backgrounds, will not let her sacrifices and her example be in vain!"

"Vivian Malone Jones' heroic role in civil rights earned her place in history, but it is her faith in God, courage and commitment, and gracious manner in which she lived her life that I will remember always. Her spirit of forgiveness is a model for us all. One news account said she "never traded on her fame" but continued to work in her chosen field and live a life of example. Thank you for making a difference in our world, Vivian Malone Jones."

"Thank you, Thank you, Thank you Mrs. Jones. We will forever be grateful for the courage and strength that you had. You have opened the door for thousands of students on the UA campus and around the world. You stood when everybody else told you to sit down. You persisted when everybody else told you to quit. You prevailed when everybody else said you would fail. All I can say is THANK YOU!! GOD BLESS YOUR SPIRIT AND YOUR FAMILY!!"

Austin Jefferson

"My name is Andr Pronovost, and I am a French-Canadian writer. (Please excuse my awkward English.) I just want Vivian Malone Jones' family and friends to know that thousands of French Canadians here in Quebec remember the widely broadcasted courageous and gracious walk of this young lady to the entrance doors of the University of Alabama in 1963. May God welcome Her."

"When I arrived at the University to begin my doctoral studies in health promotion, I walked through the front doors of Foster Auditorium and then upstairs to my advisor's office where he gave me my teaching and research assignment, along with permission to check out keys to those same doors. Many days as I entered the building to go about my daily routine, I paused to think about what you faced when you entered the same doors that I now flung open so effortlessly. In my heart, I feel that it was really you who handed me those keys - not to a building, but to a future of opportunities."

Torhonda Lee, doctoral candidate

"I extend a monumental tribute and thank you to Ms. Vivian M. Jones for her strength and courage to challenge the status quo during the difficult times of the early 1960's. Her tenacity was no less than profound. However, she was not alone because the universal source of energy, the God force, was her director and keeper without a doubt. She was simply on a mission that was her purpose. I only wish that an opportunity has arisen to have met and known her personally. I came along a decade or so later to the University of Alabama, and it was a wonderful experience that will be forever cherished. Ms. Jones and the divine energy opened the door to a wonderful university and I will be eternally grateful for her pioneering inquiry. It is a grand feeling to know that while her body and mind have left the physical earth plane, her spirit is eternal and changeless. Therefore she will always be with us because we are connected by the spirit.

"I salute her now and forever."

A. Morys Perry
BS (1976), MA (1978) in Business

"I would like to say that the courage that Vivian showed during the summer of 1963 was an inspiration to my life. I entered during the summer and was one of the lucky ones to live in Martha Parham on the same floor with Vivian. She was a very plesant girl and always friendly with us, her floor mates. I have reflected on those days many times and her courage was always the most outstanding memory I had. She was a very young lady, with courage, and made an impact on many lives. She will be missed, and her place in history will forever be remembered."

Judye Maxwell Rasmussen, Ed.D

"I met Vivian several years ago when I started working for the U.S. EPA. At that time, I was in awe of this civil rights icon. After a period of time, I got to know her and realized just how special she was. She was God-fearing, gracious and kind. There was a time I wanted to thank her personally for her sacrifice, but I came to realize that she did not want thanks. She had done what she felt she had to do. I will always remember two things about Vivian, keep God first and be a forgiving person. I will always feel blessed for knowing her, not because she was a pioneer, but because she was the most extraordinary person I have known."

Rosalyn Hughes Fairley, BSChe 1982

"I can't think of any prouder moments in my life than graduating from the University of Alabama. It always amazed me how far the University had come from Ms. Malone Jones' first historic steps to my time as an Afircan American on campus. Our school, and all of us, are much better for the changes she inspired, and her memory should continue to do so. Thank you."

LaSamuel Stallworth '01 & '04

It's about taking a stand.
Just as clear as we are able to stand each day.
It's about dreaming bigger than the possible.
Making a way out of no way.
It's about where we might be headed,
when we leave from these stomping grounds.
It's about what your legacy will be,
when you no longer will be around.
It's about appreciating our blessings,
without the trailblazers,
where would we be?
Stop and think about HER strength; A spirit that's set free. STOP and realize that tomorrow isn't promised, express your thanks here and now. Remembering a woman so courageous, Vivian Jones,
take your bow.
Everyday we walk the University,
whatever minority we may represent.
Everyday let's think of our liberty,
her freedom,
and what it meant.
Everyday that we have life,
is a day to celebrate.
Let's be the authors of our own stories;
Chapter 1: To Graduate.
Let's remember what it took,
sweat will ALWAYS get you change.
May your soul rest in peace,
here's to you,
Amazing Grace.

I've never been so thankful.
I've never felt so blessed.
I love you Sister for your achievements.
Thank you!(YID)
Peace!

"Thank you Ms. Jones for the courage you showed to pave the way for other African Americans. You impressed upon us the importance of a college education and for this I am grateful. Your legacy will always be remembered."

"Her courage and leadership was the reason I attended the University of Alabama. I remember meeting Mrs. Jones in 1983 at the University as we celebrated her historic actions to gain entrance into the University twenty years earlier. She was a woman of conviction, of purpose and truly the model for what a True American Hero should be. She will be truly missed as a leader, trailblazer and outstanding alumnus. May God Bless Her and Her Family. Thank You Vivian!"

Elgardo Pressley, Class of 85

"As a 9 year old girl growing up in Tuscaloosa in 1963, Vivian Malone's courage gave me a sense of my own courage in standing up for human and civil rights. Last year I finished a novella to her honor and memory titled The Southern Cross. She will always be one of Alabama's eternal lasting "stars."

"I am quite appreciative of her courage and determination. Her perseverance changed the "different" ways the University functioned during that time. She gave a bright future to so many individuals, of all races, and that in itself is too great for words. I'm sure I speak for thousands if not millions when I say "thank you" Mrs. Jones."

"When I attended the University of Alabama in 1991-93, I was always proud to say that I was a student here because of the rich culture and history. Mrs. Vivian Malone Jones is a part of that history. She is a wonderful example of a strong African American and woman. During 1963, she probably did not know that she would change the way people look at African Americans and women. But she showed the world that women can and are world changers."

Veronica Sharp Cross

"My first encounter with Vivian Malone was my freshman year at the University of Alabama (my father had moved us from Phoenix, Arizona back to Alabama after his retirement). I was walking into the gym for a physical education class and spotted another young woman sitting alone and some distance from the other girls in the class. I gravitated to her because she was alone, and because I recognized shyness. I had no idea why there was such a gap between her and the other students. We sat, introduced ourselves and chatted, waiting for class to start. When class ended we walked together to our next class and continued to do this during the semester. She was a very engaging, graceful, and attractive girl who carried herself with such poise. It wasn't until the second week of walking to class that I noticed we were also being followed by a couple of men in suits. I asked her if she knew who they were and that was when I found out that Vivian was a modern day pioneer; forging the way for so many. I was so very impressed with her demeanor, her generosity of spirit, and her courage. We lost track of one another as another semester began, but I never forgot her. As an educator, I have often told young students about her, especially during February when we celebrate famous African-Americans, and just as important, during March when we recognize outstanding women. She continues to be an inspiration. It was an honor to meet and share time with her. She will be missed."

"I was 17 years old and a senior in high school when I saw a documentary recounting the experiences of Vivian Malone and James Hood at the 'Stand at the Schoolhouse Door.' As I continued to watch I could feel the courage, anxiety and all the hopes and fears of an entire nation they must have felt by crossing that threshold into the administration building. Most of all what stood out to me was not only the fact that the students were black but that one of them was a woman.

"I was so moved by Mrs. Malone Jones that I too attended the University of Alabama. I had to leave during my sophomore year due to financial difficulties but her courage and endurance never left me. I felt an obligation and duty to Mrs. Jones to continue down the path that she made for me and all minority students and finish what I started. I am now enrolled in the UA External Degree Program and expected to graduated in August 2006.

"Thank you Vivian Malone Jones. You will not only live in our history books but also in our hearts."

"I thank you for being that rock and paving the way for so many of us. May God bless your soul."

"I would like to thank Mrs. Malone Jones for her determination in her pursuit of attending the University of Alabama. With Mrs. Malone Jones efforts, she paved the way for many African American students to receive a quality education from the University of Alabama and other schools as well. Thank you for paving the way for many!"

Derek Pugh, Class of 2001

"Blessed is the leader who seeks the best for those he serves."

"She had our best interests at heart, and we are eternally grateful. From the bottom of my heart... Thank you."

"Vivian, you have done so much for African Americans and I thank you a lot. You made it possible for me to attend such colleges as Alabama and also for my future children and their children. Again I can't express my thanks in one message. May you rest in peace and I will see you one day."

"The lasting impact and legacy you have left on The University will never be forgotten. We students who identify ourselves as African American have and will forever continue to conscious in our actions as we matriculate from this place. Your courage and spirit serves as an inspiration and catalyst for we who too strive to make our world a better place. May God bless your family. Thank you and may God look upon your caring soul and accept you into His Kingdom. Thank you for paving the way for me! "

Charles Brandon Gray

"We met Mrs. Vivian Malone Jones as the usher of 'From the Heart Church Ministries of Atlanta.' She was a friendly Christian woman. We miss her and she will be in our hearts forever. Thank you for being a friend to us, Mrs. Jones. "

"To: Vivian Malone Jones
Thank you. "

"Ms. Malone, Thank you so much for what you did! You paved the way for my mother to attend the University of Alabama as an African American (9 years later, B.S. '76, M.Ed. '78) and for her children (Jessica, B.S. '08; Mike, MBA '07). We are finally able to be a "BAMA" family, because we will be able to send our children to the Capstone. We will be able to say with pride, as people of color have not been able to say, we have been a part of the Crimson tradition for generations. Thank you so much! I am inspired to learn more and perform at my best in your honor. "

Mike Giles, MBA Class of 2007

"Vivian Malone Jones will be remembered for her courage. Her determination gave a mortal blow to institutional segregation in education in the South. I am thankful for her courage. "

"Style, grace, poise, strength, and determination joined together to create Vivian Malone Jones. Today I along with so many other African Americans walk in the footsteps of Vivian Malone Jones. Because of her, students today of all races have a smoother road to travel, an easier battle to fight, and a brighter future. In the midst of the clouds and darkness of segregation Vivian Malone Jones was the light that seemed to melt away the clouds, part the darkness, and give hope to those who were still trying to emerge from the storms of racism, segression, and oppression. She will truly be missed but her legacy will continue to shine in her place. "

LeNa' Ferguson- Powe

"I would like to thank Vivian Malone Jones and her fellow trailblazers, James Hood and Autherine Lucy for their brave and courageous stance to pave a way for other African Americans and people of color to attend the University of Alabama. If it wasn't for Vivian Malone Jones entering those doors before I was born, I wouldn't be a student here today. Thank you and God Bless your soul. "

"I am one of what seemed to be 'the few African American students' who attended UA in 1973, graduating in 1977. Although a decade after Mrs. Jones' initial encounter with Mr. Wallace, it appeared that many people were still trying to adjust to the changes that resulted. It was the courage and determination of Mrs. Jones, along with Arthurine Lucy, that opened doors, not only for herself, but also for an entire race of people. It was remembering her courage and determination that gave me courage to endure. Thank you, Mrs. Jones. "

Evelyn Scott James

"I never got a chance to meet Vivian Malone Jones, but during my entire time at the "Capstone" her legacy gave me the desire to push through tough academic times and a less than perfect social environment. It was because of her footsteps I got the rewards of an education at the University of Alabama. She set an example for all students to follow."

Jon W. Beans, Class of 1984
AAA Secretary 1981-82

"Ms. Malone's triumphant stance and determination to enter the University impacted me as a child growing up in Tuscaloosa on the west side. As I pondered on where to attend college, I recollected images of Ms. Malone and decided The University of Alabama was where I wanted to go. I chose Social Work as my field of study so I too could help others as my life goal. Thank you Ms. Malone for paving the way not only for women of color for all humanity. You showed us all that patience, vigilance and faith can move mountains. May you rest in peace."

"Vivian Malone Jones' actions paved the way for so many people of color to have the right to an education here at the University of Alabama. I am personally very grateful to her for her efforts and will forever honor her legacy."

"I had the pleasure of meeting Vivian Malone Jones at the Opening Doors Celebration. I was working as a volunteer, and met her briefly, but the words she shared made a lasting impression. Our sorority had just come to campus, exactly 40 years after her struggles, and being the 1st Multicultural Sorority on this campus didn't exactly compare to her trials but it was hard in itself. Mrs. Jones was so compassionate and accepting, not to mention encouraging. I will always remember the sincerity that she shared with me."

Miranda Warner
Delta Xi Phi Multicultural Sorority

"Thank you so much for being the person that you were. You helped so many people by doing what you did and I just want to say how grateful I am for what you did. I am truly humbled when I think about what you must have endured. It is always difficult being the first and again I just want to say thank you for your sacrifice. "

"I am so thankful for her courage and bravery as she stood in the doors of Foster Hall. She opened the doors of a great institution and opened the eyes of a great nation. I am a 1987 Electrical Engineering graduate of the University of Alabama and the Chief Information Officer of a Defense Contractor in Orlando, Florida. She paved the way for my success and I will be forever in her debt."

Carla Gibson Holoman '87

"Thank you for taking those first brave steps which opened the door for so many others. You are an inspiration for our campus and our nation."

"Thank you for your courage."

"I have the utmost respect for what your life stood for. It is because of your courage and strength, that I and others were able to attend the University of Alabama without the same barriers you faced."

"Longfellow in his poem, "A Psalm of Life", challenges us to leave our footprints on the sands of time. I salute you today for paving the way for me and others to attend the University of Alabama. You have given your best to the world as Madelyn Bridges wrote, and your memories will bring out the best in Future Generations."

Rep. Barbara B. Boyd, Ed.D. HD32

"Although I did not know Ms. Jones, I cannot begin to fathom the courage she had to take that huge step not just in her life, but to help make the University of Alabama and the state of Alabama a better place for all individuals.

"She should be an inspiration for all of us to reach beyond ourselves to make equal opportunity a reality wherever we are."

"Thanks for demostrating that, if you can't hate what is evil, you can't love what is good."

"I am saddened to hear of the loss of this awesome woman. I thank her "in spirit" for opening the door to my education at the University of Alabama. Ten years after Vivian, we had our first Homecoming Queen of color (Terry Points), and three years after that, I was crowned queen. I owe that to the bravery and courage of Vivian Malone Jones and James Hood. She lives in my heart!"

Billye Faye Scott Kee

"Thank you to Vivian Malone Jones for her courage to pave way for African Americans by integrating the University of Alabama. Although I did not graduate from the University of Alabama, as an African American female, I am grateful for her stand. Whenever challenges seem difficult for me in today's world, I refer to Vivian Malone Jones's plight. May she rest in peace and may the University of Alabama continue to move forward to making the campus a welcome environment for all students regardless of race."

"Mrs. Jones was an inspiration to all African American students here at The University of Alabama. I am grateful for her impact on my life as a UA African American female. She will always be remembered in my heart."

Tribute to a Trailblazer - Vivian Malone Jones