Dr. John T. Washington, one of the first African Americans to hold a
faculty position at the University of Central Florida, was an Associate
Professor of Sociology during the 1970's. At that time, there were few
programs and services to assist students, particularly ethnic and minority
students, in making a successful transition to the University. Most
notably, his pioneering efforts to sensitize individuals and organizations
to the needs and aspirations of African Americans were instrumental in
establishing the Office of Affirmative Action & Equal Opportunity, the
African American Student Union, and the Office of Minority Student
Activities at UCF. In addition to teaching classes, working for equal
opportunity and social justice, and mentoring students and colleagues, he
conducted the first comprehensive research on Orlando Black leaders and
their leadership styles. His interest in leadership and community
involvement incensed several current community leaders to become active in
the civic and political arena.

Dr. Washington was also a minister whose interest, sincerity, and altruism
had a profound impact on those with whom he had contact. His efforts to
improve the plight of African Americans throughout Central Florida and his
commitment and dedication to Meals on Wheels and other volunteer programs
earned him the WESH Channel 6 Jefferson Award for outstanding Community
service.

Following his untimely death in 1983, the UCF Student Services Building
was named in his honor. To keep his commitment to scholarship and
community service alive, the University established a tradition of
honoring adult and youth community individuals with the John T. Washington
Community Service Awards. A scholarship fund was also established in his
name to assist worthy students in completing their education.