CNR Statement on Gordon Parks

GORDON PARKS
1912-2006

It is with great sorrow that The College of New Rochelle acknowledges the death of Gordon Parks.  He was an extraordinarily talented individual who achieved many milestones in his career.  His unprecedented work as a photojournalist, filmmaker, author, and composer chronicled the Black experience in the United States and helped set industry standards for artistic expression.

“Gordon Parks had a wonderful association with us at The College of New Rochelle,” says Dr. Stephen J. Sweeny, CNR President. “A true renaissance man, he was committed to educating the community with his work, and we were proud to honor him as a role model for current and future artists.  We know he took particular pride in the accomplishments of his daughter, Toni, a beloved member of the CNR family over the years."  In 1991, CNR established the Gordon Parks Gallery at its John Cardinal O’Connor Campus in the South Bronx. The Gallery provides opportunities for established and emerging artists to exhibit their work and to serve as an important cultural resource for students, alumnae/i, faculty, and staff at CNR, and New York City communities.