On Jan. 13, 2025, the Richmond neighborhood mourned the lack of Henry Marsh, an esteemed alumnus of Virginia Union College. As Richmond’s first African American mayor, Marsh was a pioneering pressure who shattered racial obstacles and created pathways for future generations.
The Richmond, Virginia, native who grew up in a racially divided world was devoted to public service. He discovered his voice as a pupil at VUU, and from there on, he was dedicated to uplifting marginalized communities and combating in opposition to systemic inequality.
In 1977, Marsh grew to become Richmond’s first African American mayor. His win moved the Commonwealth of Virginia, which was nonetheless coping with the harshness of racial injustice. One in every of Marsh’s prime priorities as mayor was prioritizing initiatives to raised the lives of Richmond’s Black residents. His mayoral efforts included inexpensive housing, entry to high-quality healthcare, and academic alternatives.
A Lifelong Committment
Marsh actively participated within the civil rights wrestle even earlier than his tenure at metropolis corridor. After his mayoral time period, he continued to struggle for justice as a civil rights lawyer and neighborhood activist. He additionally actively participated in Richmond’s revitalization initiatives and labored with native teams to see them by way of to completion.
All through his life, Marsh maintained robust ties to Virginia Union College. He typically returned to the college to debate his expertise and encourage the following technology of leaders.
“Henry Marsh was not solely a trailblazer in Richmond but additionally an embodiment of the values Virginia Union College instills in its college students: service, excellence, and a dedication to justice,” stated Dr. Hakim J. Lucas, president and CEO of VUU. “His work and legacy will without end encourage those that comply with as we proceed to honor the trail he paved for future generations of leaders.”
As we honor Henry Marsh’s legacy, we mirror on his transformative impression on Richmond and past. Future leaders will proceed to be guided by his unwavering marketing campaign for racial equality.