David Mozart Dansby Jr. made history in civil rights and education when he became the first Black student to receive an undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1961.
His perseverance and determination broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations of African American students.
Breaking Down Barriers: Integrating UNC and Local Businesses
Dansby’s activism began in high school when he and other young people attempted to integrate the Greensboro Public Library, though their efforts were initially unsuccessful.
Determined to fight racism wherever he could, Dansby was one of the first African Americans to attend UNC-Chapel Hill as an undergraduate and later at the law school.
During his undergraduate years, Dansby was part of the efforts to desegregate not only the campus but also the businesses located nearby, inspired by the sit-ins at the Woolworth’s counter in Greensboro. Despite facing threats and challenges, Dansby and his fellow activists proved successful in their efforts, leading restaurants, theaters, and other businesses to begin accepting African American customers.
A Trailblazer and Mentor for Future Generations
In 1961, after Dansby made history by becoming the first known African American undergraduate to earn his degree from UNC, he went on to attend the UNC School of Law, continuing his journey as a pioneering student and civil rights advocate.
Dansby’s perseverance, guidance, and support served as an inspiration for many of his fellow African American classmates, who looked up to him as a mentor and trailblazer. “He was a visionary,” said Edith Hubbard, a graduate of the class of 1966. “He saw the path to what needed to be done, and then he was part of that group that said, ‘This is the way to make it happen.’”
A Dedicated Advocate for Civil Rights
After graduating from law school, Dansby returned to his hometown of Greensboro to practice law. He continued to be involved in civil rights efforts, working with attorneys to strategize, participating in activist meetings, offering advice and ideas, and conducting research.
Dansby’s dedication and courage were recognized by former UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz in 2021, who praised him as a role model and pioneer. “UNC-Chapel Hill would not be the school it is today without David Dansby, Jr.,” said Interim Chancellor Lee Roberts.
A Legacy of Inspiration and Progress
Throughout his life, Dansby remained committed to serving and educating himself on global affairs impacting the Black community. He advised students on which courses to take, the best professors, and which clubs were safe for Black students to join, always striving to support and uplift others.
