
Dr. Billy Curl (’64) and Larry Bonner (’64), ACU’s first two African-American undergraduate students in Fall 1962, marched into Moody Coliseum on Monday morning alongside the university’s president and provost, wearing academic regalia and leading the processional before a nearly full house of students, faculty, staff, alumni and other friends.

The distinctive honor was noted during the ceremony during special introductions made by Dr. Gary McCaleb (’64), vice president of the university:
“Fifty years ago, Abilene Christian University opened its doors to students of all races for the first time. In August 1962, Dr. Billy Curl and Larry Bonner became the first full-time African-American students to enroll at Abilene Christian. Last semester, ACU began to commemorate this milestone with a series of events, including a Chapel Forum in February attended by more than 1,000 students, faculty, staff, alumni and members of the Abilene community. Other opportunities for reflection and celebration of the university’s integration anniversary are planned for this fall semester.
“A few minutes ago, you saw Dr. Curl – a preacher and ACU trustee from Inglewood, California – and Mr. Bonner – a church elder and successful businessman from Silver Spring, Maryland – accompany president Schubert and chancellor Money in the Processional before taking their seats on the front row. Today, we celebrate the 50th anniversary and we celebrate all the students who have followed Dr. Curl and Mr. Bonner over the last half-century. … Billy and Larry, your courage, humility, grace and pioneer spirit will forever be known among us.”


“I’m appreciative just to witness it. Giving them the rings just puts the icing on the cake,” said Jeanetta Norris, senior music education major from Fort Worth and president of the Black Students Association. Curl’s wife, Mary, and Bonner’s wife, Donna, also were present.
“This has been wonderful,” said Bonner of the experience. “It’s changed my whole life.”
