King Vergil Cheek (Finding Aid)

King Vergil Cheek

1937 -

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Food: Broccoli

Favorite Time of Year: All seasons

Favorite Vacation Spot: A good place for writing

Interview Length: 91 minutes

Interview Date(s): June 14, 2004

Interview Location(s): Silver Spring, Maryland

Abstract

Educator King Cheek describes his family background, describing both his mother's and father's personalities. Cheek recalls growing up in Greensboro, North Carolina. He didn't talk until age six or seven, which led some to believe he had a disability. Cheek explains that he was a loner as a child, which helped him cultivate an active imagination. Cheek also describes his elementary school experience. His second grade teacher recognized his intelligence, and administered a test proving that he was gifted rather than disabled. Educator King Cheek discusses his childhood aspirations, and gives examples of his self reliance and work ethic, including his decision to get a job and pay rent to his father at the age of nine. Cheek describes his high school experience, remembering his interest in debate and his friendship with Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays, two factors that led to his enrollment at Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. Cheek describes his time there and at the University of Chicago, where he attained a master's degree and a law degree. Cheek tells how his involvement in interracial and interfaith relationships at Chicago helped him grow personally and spiritually. Educator King Cheek describes his professional career as an educator and administrator, including stints at Shaw University, Morgan State University, and the New York Institute for Technology. Cheek shares his thoughts on the Civil Rights Movement, and talks about his efforts to support non-traditional, progressive models of learning while in charge of the Union for Experimenting Colleges and Universities. Educator King Cheek discusses his plans to start an institution focused on non-traditional medicinal practice. Cheek also describes his relationship with his brother, fellow educator James Cheek.

26 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)