It goes without saying that Charles L. Blockson is a central figure in Temple University’s history. In 1984, he donated the Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection to the university, which has served as a resource for both the Temple and North Philadelphia communities. As one of the most prestigious collections of African American artifacts in the U.S., it is a hallmark of the university, and it has forever tied Blockson to Temple. 

This May, Blockson’s ties to the university will grow even stronger. 

The African American historian will be awarded an honorary degree posthumously during Temple’s 137th Commencement ceremony, the university announced Friday. The ceremony will be held Wednesday, May 8, at 10 a.m. in the Liacouras Center, 1776 N. Broad St. 

“Charles L. Blockson is among the greatest historians of modern times, and the entire Temple University community has benefitted from his knowledge and generosity. The Blockson Collection is truly one of the jewels of this university and of the nation,” said Richard M. Englert, president of Temple University. “From my perspective, Charles Blockson has always been an Owl, but at this year’s Commencement ceremony, we will make that official. Given everything that he has given to Temple, I cannot think of anyone more deserving.” 

The curator emeritus of the Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection at Temple University, Blockson passed away in June 2023. He was 89. 

“I am deeply honored that Temple University is recognizing the impactful contributions of my father, Charles L. Blockson,” said Noelle P. Blockson. “My father’s exploration of the history of African Americans, especially in the Philadelphia region and the Delaware Valley, left an indelible mark on us all. This honorary degree recognition is a testament to his lifelong commitment to education and advocacy, and I am immensely proud to see his legacy celebrated in this meaningful way.” 

He is remembered as the architect behind one of the most prestigious collections of African American artifacts in the U.S. Located inside Sullivan Hall, the Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection houses more than 700,000 items relating to the global Black experience, and its extensive catalog dates from 1581 to the present. 

The collection includes everything from first-edition works of Phyllis Wheatley and W.E.B. DuBois to original drafts of Tupac Shakur’s lyrics. It has been an impactful resource for students and faculty members in the Department of Africology and African American Studies, which is one of the first such departments in the U.S. and the first to offer a doctoral program in 1988. 

“No African American that I can recall has ever had an impact on the genealogical study of African people as Charles Blockson did. Using his vast knowledge and his family background as a platform, he tremendously advanced our understanding of contemporary African history,” said Molefi Kete Asante, professor and former chair of the Department of Africology and African American Studies, in June 2023 following Blockson’s passing. “Blockson was a man who hunted in the forest of knowledge, and the books that he discovered became trophies that did not sit on shelves but instead actively energized an entire population. He is, in my judgement, one of Temple’s most legendary figures.” 

Blockson’s passion for collecting can be dated back to when he was a fourth-grade student growing up in Norristown. It was then that a substitute teacher said that individuals who look like him have no history. Blockson went home and told his parents, who made sure that he was introduced to Negro literature, The Philadelphia Tribune, other local black newspapers, the Crisis and Negro Digest magazines, as well as the work of prominent African American men and women. This sparked an interest within Blockson, and he would spend a lifetime proving this substitute teacher wrong. 

Each year, Temple honors distinguished figures by bestowing honorary degrees, and Blockson is one of two individuals who will be honored this May. Award-winning actress, writer, showrunner and star of the ABC comedy series Abbott Elementary Quinta Brunson will also be honored and will address the Class of 2024 during the ceremony. 

For more information about Temple University’s 2024 Commencement ceremony, visit temple.edu/commencement.