George Boyer Vashon Tree Dedication

The year 2024 marks the 200th birthday of Oberlin’s first African American graduate, George Boyer Vashon, who became the first Black lawyer in the state of New York and a prominent educator, writer, and abolitionist. To honor Vashon's historic ties to Oberlin, an elm tree will be planted in Tappan Square. Join us for this special dedication ceremony featuring remarks by Vashon’s great-great grandson, Paul Thornell; President Carmen Twillie Ambar; and Professor Emeritus of Religion and Africana Studies A.G. Miller.