Alumna Florene Calvin Dawkins to Donate Rare Books and Original Artwork to Lincoln University of Missouri

Longtime educator and community advocate Florene Calvin Dawkins ’77 will donate special selections from her extensive private art and rare book collection to LU on Oct. 4, 2024.

Longtime educator, community advocate and Lincoln University of Missouri (LU) alumna Florene Calvin Dawkins '77 will donate special selections from her extensive private art and rare book collection to LU. An unveiling event will be held on Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, at 2 p.m. in Memorial Hall (818 Chestnut St., Jefferson City, MO 65101) on Lincoln’s campus. The event is free and open to the public. 

Dawkins' donation includes an original untitled work by John Biggers, a famous African American artist; a rare book, "Black Art in Houston," co-authored by John Biggers; a signed copy of "Dog Ghost and Other Texas Folktales" illustrated by John Biggers; a lithograph titled "Head of a Man" by Charles White; and a lithograph called "The Fish Cleaners" by Charles Criner.

In addition, Dawkins has established the Dr. James Frank Presidential Art Award with a $10,000 gift to the University. This award will be presented annually to a deserving art student at Lincoln University.

“Ms. Dawkins is a wonderful example of the positive impact that Lincoln makes on our students and how our alumni family gives back,” said LU President Dr. John B. Moseley. “Her generous donation expands the cultural experience available on campus for our students and the entire Lincoln family, and the scholarship she has established paves the way for even more greatness to come by providing access to a Lincoln education to a deserving student.”

"I've been fortunate and very blessed. More than anything, I think 'blessed' defines who I am," Dawkins said. "I've been collecting art for about 50 years, and it has brought such joy to me to see significant works by African Americans and others. I love the story art tells. Every painting reveals a part of the artist's soul."

Dawkins credits Lincoln for providing the foundation for her life’s work and accomplishments.

"I started my journey at Lincoln in 1973,” said Dawkins. “My father charged me to go there and be all that I could be. Lincoln was my foundation that propelled me to do things in life. You never forget who brought you to the dance. Lincoln brought me to the dance."

Dawkins holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Lincoln University and a Master of Education from Columbus State University. With a career spanning over 38 years in the Muscogee County School District, Dawkins has made significant contributions to public education. First as an elementary reading teacher and later a high school history teacher, her teaching career culminated in her role as a Special Education LEA facilitator and community liaison for the district's Communities in Schools Program, where she currently works to address the challenges faced by underserved students.

Her professional work in education is matched only by her deep commitment to community service. Over the years, Dawkins has served on a variety of local boards, including the Columbus Community Center Board, the Columbus Art Association, and as president of the Ma Rainey Board of Directors. Her volunteer work includes spearheading efforts to restore the historic Ma Rainey House, now a museum honoring the legendary blues singer, and championing projects to celebrate notable artists like Alma Thomas. Additionally, she serves as the district agent for Congressman Sanford D. Bishop for the Congressional Black Caucus Scholarships for the Second Congressional District.

Dawkins hopes her donation will inspire others: “I would hope that other alumni and people who contribute would help make Lincoln the holder of some great African art like so many other HBCUs have done. It's not only paintings – it's a beneficiary of history.”

“We thank Ms. Dawkins for her gift, an example of the true spirit of alumni stewardship, which is essential for our University’s and students’ success,” said LU Vice President for Advancement Dr. Grant Winrow. “We look forward to continuing our relationship with her as we continue to receive items from her cherished collection to share with our LU family.”

This event is free and open to the public. To RSVP or for more information, please contact Alumni@LincolnU.edu.