Raymond Summerville, Ph.D., an assistant professor of English at Fayetteville State University, was honored with the Emerging Trailblazer Award at the 7th Annual Trailblazer Awards on October 2 at the University of Missouri-Columbia. This recognition is part of an event celebrating the contributions of Black alumni during the university’s homecoming week.
The Mizzou Black Alumni Network presented the award to Summerville, who has made notable strides in the fields of English and African American folklore in the years following his graduation. Summerville expressed his surprise and gratitude for the award, highlighting the impact that his time at the university had on his scholarly focus, particularly in folklore studies.
Reflecting on his experiences, he noted the support he received from faculty members, which he found invaluable. “It shows how generous they were,” Summerville remarked, acknowledging the efforts of the university to create a welcoming environment for students.
Academic Background and Career Transition
Originally from North Carolina, Summerville obtained his doctorate in English, concentrating on folklore and cultural oral traditions, from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Prior to this, he earned a Master of Arts in English and African American literature from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, where he also completed two bachelor’s degrees.
After working as an adjunct instructor at North Carolina A&T, Summerville joined Fayetteville State University in 2021. Since his arrival, he has significantly contributed to the academic community by publishing numerous scholarly papers and a book.
“Working here, it’s been really great,” he commented, noting that Fayetteville State values research and has allowed him to publish between 10 to 12 papers, alongside a book released a few years prior.
Research on Language and Civil Rights
Summerville’s research investigates the role of language, particularly proverbs, in shaping political movements throughout American and African American history. He emphasized the importance of phraseology in mobilizing communities during significant historical events.
His first book, titled Proverb Masters: Shaping the Civil Rights Movement, published in 2024, explores the influence of language during the Civil Rights era, analyzing figures such as Malcolm X and Ida B. Wells. The book provides insights into how these leaders utilized language to inspire and organize communities.
In his latest scholarly work, a paper published in March titled Gratitude is the Curse of the Republics: The Proverbs and Proverbial Expressions of Wharton Jackson Green, Summerville examines the life of Wharton Jackson Green, a Civil War veteran and former North Carolina Congressman. The paper highlights Green’s significant contributions to North Carolina’s educational system and his ties to Fayetteville, where he owned a prominent vineyard.
Future Endeavors in Scholarship
Summerville’s ongoing research continues to expand the understanding of the Civil Rights movement. He is currently working on a new book that will shine a light on lesser-known figures who played crucial roles in the movement, such as Melba Beals and Paul Robeson, as well as literary voices like Ernest Gaines.
As Summerville progresses in his academic career at Fayetteville State University, the Emerging Trailblazer Award stands as a testament to his dedication to scholarship and his contributions to the field of folklore and civil rights history.
Additional works by Summerville can be accessed through the university’s Digital Commons page.
Source: Fayetteville State University
