Spelman College has announced that it will rename its performing arts center after Samuel L. Jackson and LaTanya Richardson Jackson. The LaTanya Richardson Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson Performing Arts Center will include a renovated theater, lobby and dressing rooms.
“These living legends met and acted together on stage on our campus. Their dedication to their artistry will leave a legacy that will inspire students in the Atlanta University Center for years to come,” Spelman College President Mary Schmidt said.
“We are grateful for their gift and that of the Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation, Bank of America and David Rockefeller Jr. to renovate the space where these beloved talents got their start. Pioneers and leaders in producing important stories, LaTanya and Sam’s excellence will forever resonate in the arts center named for them.”
Both LaTanya Richardson Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson have their roots at Morehouse College and Spelman College. The two held leadership roles within the Morehouse Spelman Players and starred in multiple productions throughout their college days. Their daughter, Zoe, also followed in their footsteps as a Spelmanite.
“The benevolence of God placed me, Sam and our daughter Zoe inside a miracle which out of great gratitude, we work hard to share. Sam and I are invested in the success of Spelman because Spelman first invested so much in us,” Richardson Jackson added.
The newly renovated performing arts center will be open to students later this year.
