KERA to air documentary on Dallas’ historic Bishop College

by Shawn Williams of Dallas South

When I look at all of the wonderful and prophetic pastors - Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III, Dr. Denny Davis, the late great Dr. C.A.W. Clark- that came out of the Bishop College fold, I’ve often wondered how in the world a place with such a tradition could have ever been forced to close its doors. Bishop College is an American institution that sadly exists only in the memory and hearts of its alumni.

I was however excited to learn that KERA will broadcast the documentary Bishop College: A Bridge Between the Worlds at 8:00 p.m., Monday, February 16 on KERA 13. The documentary, by KERA’s Rick Thompson tells the story of Bishop College from its founding in Marshall, Texas to the final days in Dallas.

Bishop College: The Bridge Between Two Worlds uses historic photographs and current interviews to tell the story of this small Texas school that made big contributions to the history of education, religion and African American culture.

Bishop was founded in Marshall, Texas in 1881. David Abner became the first African American person to graduate from a Texas institution of higher learning. He received his degree from Bishop College in 1884.

I know that I’ll have my DVR set for what should be a wonderful historical account of a lost African-American jewel. I hope to get an interview with the producer before the show airs.