Source: Nadine Ijewere / Polo Ralph Lauren
On this day (April 11) in 1881, the school now known as Spelman College was founded. As the oldest private historically Black liberal arts college for women, Spelman has seen its fair share of history-making women.
From Pulitzer Prize-winning author Alice Walker to politician Stacey Abrams, Spelmanites eat, breathe, and sleep nothing but excellence in their fields… and entertainment is no exception!
As we salute Spelman College on its Founders’ Day, let’s take a look at our favorite Spelmanites in entertainment!
1. Avery*Sunshine
Grammy-winning singer/songwriter
2. Cassi Davis
Actress & singer; best known for roles in several Tyler Perry productions, including House of Payne, Madea’s Big Happy Family, and Madea’s Farewell Tour: The Play
3. Tia Fuller
Grammy-nominated saxophonist, composer, educator, and member of Beyoncé’s all-female band
4. A.J. Johnson
Actress, fitness trainer, choreographer & life coach; credits include House Party and Baby Boy
5. Mereba
Singer, rapper, songwriter & record producer
6. Keshia Knight Pulliam
Actress; best known for roles on the TV shows House of Payne & The Cosby Show
7. Tanika Ray
Actress & TV personality; former correspondent for Extra and guest panelists for CNN, MSNBC, and HLN’s Showbiz Tonight
8. LaTanya Richardson Jackson
Actress & wife of fellow actor Samuel L. Jackson; credits include The Fighting Temptations, Losing Isaiah, Malcolm X, and Purpose
9. Shaun Robinson
Emmy-winning journalist & TV personality; former host of Access Hollywood & TV One Access
10. Rolonda Watts
Actress, journalist, and former talk show host
