Paul Quinn College: A Legacy of Education, Innovation, and Urban Transformation

Paul Quinn College (PQC) stands as a testament to the enduring power of education and the transformative potential of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Located in Dallas, Texas, this private Methodist college, affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), has a rich history, a vibrant campus life, and a unique approach to academics that sets it apart.

A Historical Overview: From Connectional High School to Paul Quinn College

Founded in 1872 in Austin, Texas, by circuit-riding preachers of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Paul Quinn College began as the Connectional High School and Institute, later known as Waco College. Its initial mission was to educate freedmen in essential trades such as blacksmithing, carpentry, tanning, and saddle work, providing them with skills relevant to the segregated society of the time.

In May 1881, the institution was officially chartered by the State of Texas and renamed Paul Quinn College, honoring Bishop William Paul Quinn, a prominent figure in the AME Church. The college then expanded its curriculum to include classical subjects like Latin, mathematics, music, theology, and English, alongside vocational skills.

Relocation and Expansion

Significant physical expansion occurred in the 1950s with the construction of a campus church, student union building, gymnasium, and administration building. In 1962, Bishop O.L. Church ensured that trustees could be elected without regard to race, creed, or color, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity.

In 1990, Paul Quinn College relocated from Waco to southeast Dallas, acquiring the campus of the former Bishop College. This move aimed to revitalize the college and expand its reach within a larger urban environment.

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Academics: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Paul Quinn College offers a curriculum rooted in the liberal arts, emphasizing practical, real-world educational experiences. Students can choose from various majors, including Mathematics, History, Psychology, Business Administration, and Religious Studies.

The Work Program

A hallmark of Paul Quinn College is its Work Program, which integrates academic study with professional experience. This program allows students to work for major corporations like JPMorgan Chase, Liberty Mutual, and Bank of America, providing them with valuable skills and enhancing their marketability after graduation.

Study Abroad

Paul Quinn College offers students the unique opportunity to study in diverse countries such as England, Ghana, Costa Rica, Hong Kong, and The Netherlands. This program broadens students' perspectives and prepares them for success in a global marketplace.

The African-American Leadership Institute

In 2016, Paul Quinn College established the African-American Leadership Institute to further develop leadership skills and promote social change.

Academic Accreditation

Paul Quinn College is accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS), ensuring the quality and credibility of its academic programs.

Campus Life: A Vibrant Community

Paul Quinn College fosters a vibrant campus life with various student organizations, including the Student Government Association, class organizations, the Vocal Ensemble, and the PQC Spirit Team. Students can also join honor societies like Phi Delta Kappa and Alpha Chi National College Honor Society, as well as National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternities and sororities.

Dress Code

Since 2007, the college has maintained a "business casual" dress code, encouraging students to develop professional attitudes and behaviors.

The "We Over Me" Philosophy and Urban Transformation

Under the leadership of President Michael Sorrell, Paul Quinn College has undergone a remarkable transformation, reinventing itself as an urban work college focused on the needs of today's students.

The "We Over Me" Farm

In 2008, President Sorrell made the bold decision to convert the school's football field into the "We over Me Farm," addressing the food desert conditions in the Southern sector of Dallas. This innovative project produces fresh produce and provides students with hands-on learning experiences in urban farming. The farm also partners with institutions like Yale University to study the impact of urban agriculture.

The farm gives 20 percent of the gross yield to the community. Even before the farm was officially dedicated, it had picked up a major customer in Legends Hospitality, a venue management firm partially owned by the Dallas Cowboys that provides food services for the Cowboys' AT&T Stadium.

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Addressing Community Concerns

Paul Quinn College has also taken a stand on community issues, such as the expansion of the McCommas Bluff Landfill near the campus. Students have organized town hall meetings and protests to advocate for environmental justice and community well-being.

Athletics: The Paul Quinn Tigers

The Paul Quinn College athletic teams are known as the Tigers. The college competes in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) as a member of the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC) and is also a member of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) as an Independent. The men's basketball team has won three national championships in the United States Collegiate Athletic Association. The 1924 Paul Quinn Tigers football team was the black college football national champion.

Campus Facilities: Supporting Student Success

Paul Quinn College boasts several key facilities that support student learning and development:

The John Hurst Adams Administrative Building: Houses the presidential suite, administrative offices, and classrooms.
The Isabel and Comer Cottrell Student Union Building (SUB): Includes the cafe, the Tiger's Den, the student lounge, and a student workout facility.
The Grand Lounge: Serves as the campus' primary meeting space.
The Richard Allen Chapel: Under renovation, the chapel lawn hosts annual commencement exercises.
The Gymnasium: Completed in 1961.
The Zale Library: Contains a mural depicting the progression and struggles of African-Americans in education.
The Lucy Hughes Hall: The college's residence hall.

Notable Alumni: Leaders and Achievers

Paul Quinn College has produced numerous notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, including:

Andy Cooper: Baseball Hall of Fame inductee.
Toni Rose: Member of the Texas House of Representatives.
Dick Campbell: Producer, director, and a key figure in Black theater during the Harlem Renaissance.

A Vision for the Future

Paul Quinn College continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its students and the community it serves. With its commitment to academic excellence, practical experience, and social responsibility, Paul Quinn College is poised to remain a vital institution for generations to come.

The Trammel S. Crow Living and Learning Center

In 2018, Paul Quinn broke ground on the Trammel S. Crow Living and Learning Center, the first new campus building in over 40 years. This facility will include a dormitory and a gym, further enhancing the campus environment.

The Urban Work College Model

President Sorrell's vision for Paul Quinn College as an urban work college is gaining national attention. By focusing on affordability, experiential learning, and community engagement, Paul Quinn College is setting a new standard for higher education.

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