Allen University, the historic institution founded by the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church in South Carolina, is set to commemorate its legacy and ongoing mission with a special event this year. The keynote speaker will be Bishop James L. Davis, Chairman of the Trustee Board of Allen University and Prelate of the 7th Episcopal District of the AME Church. Bishop Davis, known for his dedication to education and leadership within the AME Church, will join President Ernest McNealey to honor the university’s enduring impact on higher education and the African American community.

Founded on July 29, 1870, under the leadership of Bishop John M. Brown, Allen University began as Payne Institute in Cokesbury, SC. In 1880, it relocated to Columbia, SC, and adopted its current name to honor Bishop Richard Allen, founder of the AME Church. Established during the challenging Reconstruction Era, the institution has remained steadfast in its mission to develop an educated clergy and empower students through a comprehensive curriculum.

Over its 150-year history, Allen University has adapted to meet the needs of society, offering programs in law, theology, arts, and sciences, and has grown into a cornerstone of academic excellence and cultural significance. Highlights of its legacy include serving veterans after World War II, excelling in athletics during the 1960s, and achieving accreditation milestones in the 1990s. Today, Allen University continues to preserve its historic foundation while preparing students for leadership and service.

The event promises to be an inspiring celebration of the university’s legacy and vision for the future, with Bishop Davis offering reflections on the institution’s historical significance and its role in shaping leaders for generations to come. The event will be held on February 11th, 2025, at 11:00 am in Chappelle Hall.