Graduates Honored: Ernest Norris, Naomi James, Merry Rodgers, Cleopatra Brooks, Jessie Ridley, July 5, 1923

Mr. Ernest Norris of Mormargee, Texas, Salutatorian of the class of 1923 Tuskegee Institute. Mr. Norris showed mechanical skill and clear cut scholarship both in his speech and by his part in the industrial exhibit.

Miss Naomi James of Cleveland, Ohio, valedictorian of the class of 1923, Tuskegee Institute. She discussed “Booker Washington’s Legacy to the Negro Business Men.” Miss James demonstrated scholarship and poise in the discussion and beautiful delivery.

Mr. Merry J. Rodgers, member of Cooper A.M.E. Zion Church, Oakland, Calif., graduate of University of California with Ph.G. degree, class ’23. Mr. Rodgers took two years of the course at the University of Washington, finishing at the celebrated school of California.

Miss Cleopatra Brooks of Oakland, Calif., member of Cooper A.M.E. Zion church and Sunday school, being secretary of the latter, who graduated from Oakland High, Class of ’23. Miss Brooks is also a member of the Varick Christian Endeavor Society, and is a very popular girl of the Eastbay.

Miss Jessie Lee Ridley, member of Cooper A.M.E. Zion Church and Sunday school, also of the Junior Choir and Varick C.E. Society, who was an honor graduate of Lafayette Junior High School, class of ’23 of Oakland, Calif. Miss Ridley will continue her studies at Oakland High.

From page 5 of The Star of Zion, the official organ of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, published in Charlotte, N.C., Thursday, July 5, 1923