John W. Porter, the first Black president of Eastern Michigan University (EMU), transformed the institution during a critical period in its history. Serving from 1979 to 1989, Porter led EMU through a decade of growth and innovation, increasing enrollment and expanding academic programs. His leadership left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire.
A Leader Born from Determination
John W. Porter grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he excelled academically and athletically. He credited his success to supportive teachers and mentors who believed in his potential. “I don’t ever think I had a C,” Porter once said, reflecting on his perfect attendance and strong grades.
His journey to higher education began when his high school football coach drove him 68 miles to visit Albion College. Porter later attended Albion, where he became a standout basketball player and the first in the school’s history to score 1,000 career points. He graduated in 1953 with a degree in Political Science and was inducted into Albion’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 1989.
Breaking Barriers in Education
After graduating, Porter faced a segregated job market. In 1954, he became one of the first Black teachers hired in Lansing, Michigan. He continued his education, earning a master’s degree in Counseling and Guidance and a doctorate in Higher Education from Michigan State University.
By 1969, Porter made history as the youngest Chief State School Officer in the nation and the first Black State School Superintendent since Reconstruction. His groundbreaking career paved the way for his appointment as EMU’s first Black president in 1979.
Saving EMU from Crisis
When Porter became president, EMU was in turmoil. “Somebody said to me that EMU is in crisis,” Porter recalled. There were even discussions about closing the university. Porter spent his first four years advocating for EMU’s survival, demonstrating its value to Michigan’s citizens.
His efforts paid off. Under his leadership, enrollment grew by 7,000 students, reaching an all-time high of 25,000. Porter also established the College of Technology, the Olds Student Recreation Center, and EMU’s first doctoral program in Educational Leadership.
A Decade of Advancement
Porter’s tenure, known as the “Decade of Advancement,” revitalized EMU. He expanded academic offerings, including a College of Business in downtown Ypsilanti. Porter also strengthened the university’s athletic programs, leading the football team to a Mid-American Conference championship and a trip to the California Bowl in 1987.
After retiring from EMU in 1989, Porter briefly served as General Superintendent of Detroit Schools, where he implemented plans to improve the urban school system. His contributions to education were honored in 1999 when EMU named the John W. Porter College of Education Building after him.
A Lasting Legacy
John W. Porter passed away in 2012, but his impact on EMU and education endures. The university held a memorial service to celebrate his achievements, and the John W. Porter Distinguished Chair in Urban Education was endowed with over $1.5 million.
Porter’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and dedication to education. His legacy continues to inspire future generations at EMU and beyond.
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