On this date in 1970, Clifton Reginald Wharton Jr. made history on January 2, 1970, when he became the president of Michigan State University (MSU). This was a groundbreaking moment, as he was the first African American president of a major U.S. university.

Wharton was a highly accomplished academic, economist, and leader. His tenure at MSU was marked by efforts to strengthen the university’s academic programs, expand international education, and improve diversity and inclusion.

Later in his career, he served as Chancellor of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, became the Chairman and CEO of TIAA-CREF, and even served as Deputy Secretary of State under President Bill Clinton.

His leadership at MSU remains a significant milestone in higher education history.