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A memorial service will be held this coming Sunday, Nov. 18, for English Professor Henry Blackwell, who died on Sept. 28 after a lengthy illness. The service for Professor Blackwell will take place at 10:30 a.m. in Gasson 305.
The first African-American faculty member in the BC English Department, Professor Blackwell taught for 32 years at the University. He specialized in African-American literature, American literature and cultural studies, with a particular interest in the works of Flannery O’Connor. Professor Blackwell also was recalled for his outreach to AHANA students and his efforts to encourage them to attend graduate school and pursue teaching careers.
Contributions in memory of Professor Blackwell may be made out to "Prof. Henry Blackwell Memorial Scholarship Fund" and sent to Prof. Robin Lydenberg c/o the Boston College English Department, Chestnut Hill, Mass. 02467.
[Professor Blackwell’s obituary appeared in the Oct. 18 Chronicle.]