Richard I. McKinney (Finding Aid)

Richard I. McKinney

1906 - 2005

Interview Length: 149 minutes

Interview Date(s): June 5, 2003

Interview Location(s): Baltimore, Maryland

Abstract

Theologian and college president Richard McKinney describes his ancestry tracing his roots back to the African colony of the Gold Coast. McKinney then details his father's and mother's backgrounds and personalities, explaining how they emphasized education to their eight children. McKinney then shares memories from his childhood, and discusses his education. Theologian and college president Richard McKinney details his high school and college years at Morehouse Academy and Morehouse College. McKinney remembers some of his influential mentors and administrators, including John Hope, Howard Thurman, and Samuel Howard Archer. He explains how his time in college helped him to broaden his horizions and increase his ability to think independently. McKinney also talks about his fellowship to a Quaker religious center in Pennsylvania, where he spent significant time learning with white people for the first time. Theologian and college president Richard McKinney details his time at Andover Newton Theological School, where he earned his divinity degree. McKinney explains how attending school in an all-white environment helped to develop his own racial tolerance, and exposed him to new ideas. McKinney discusses the main ideas of the classic Greek philosophers, whose teachings he applied to his own outlook. McKinney also shares his views on styles of worship in black churches. Theologian and college president Richard McKinney discusses some influential theologians and religious figures who influenced him, and offers an evaluation of modern day "mega-churches". McKinney then explains his decision to attend graduate school at Yale University, and lists professors there who influenced him. McKinney gives the history of Storer College in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and details his six years there as president of the college. Theologian and college president Richard McKinney discusses many historically black colleges that have closed their doors over the years. McKinney then details his many encounters with W. E. B. DuBois, and talks about DuBois's stance on religion and education. McKinney shares his hopes and concerns for African Americans, stressing the need for community and family involvement in the lives of young people. He also considers his legacy. Theologian and college president Richard McKinney explains his longevity, discusses book projects he has undertaken over the years, and shares how he would like to be remembered.

30 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)