News Summary
James L. ‘Jack’ Gant, the first African American dean at Florida State University, passed away at the age of 98. Known for his warm demeanor, Gant was a significant advocate for diversity in education and left a lasting impact on students and the FSU community. His legacy includes numerous contributions to racial representation in academic institutions and the establishment of awards fostering innovation and community engagement in education.
Florida State University, Tallahassee – James L. “Jack” Gant, the first African American dean at Florida State University (FSU), passed away at the age of 98 on August 8, which coincidentally was also his birthday. His death was attributed to multiple health issues, including pneumonia. Gant was widely recognized for his warm demeanor and presence in the FSU community, earning the endearing title of “magnet of love” from those who knew him.
Gant’s family, including his daughter Jacquelyn Randolph, described him as a beloved figure, emphasizing his supportive nature throughout their lives, particularly during family sports events. His legacy as an influential leader and advocate for education underscores his significant role in shaping diversity within academic institutions.
Born in 1927 in Bainbridge, Georgia, Gant grew up in Telogia, Florida, alongside three siblings. He married his wife, Gloria Gant, in Tampa, and they had two children, but their son has since passed away. Gant began his academic career at Florida State University in 1970, working as a temporary instructor in Educational Administration within the College of Education. His hiring was part of a broader initiative during the 1970s and 1980s aimed at increasing the representation of African American faculty at FSU.
Through his dedication and expertise, Gant became a tenured faculty member and was appointed dean of the College of Education, taking on the role of associate professor in 1974. He served in these capacities until his retirement in 1982 and was recognized as professor emeritus in 1994. Freddie Groomes McClendon, a retired FSU administrator, acknowledged Gant’s distinguished contributions to the university, highlighting his exceptional leadership qualities and admirable character.
Gant’s educational journey was not without its challenges; he struggled academically in his formative years, failing both the first and second grades. With the support of his mother, a schoolteacher, he overcame these obstacles and graduated high school at the age of 15. He attended Florida A&M University (FAMU) beginning in 1942, where he played football and later earned a place in the FAMU Athletics Hall of Fame in 1985. He served as the eighth elected president of FAMU’s National Alumni Association from 1965 to 1970.
In pursuit of higher education, Gant obtained a bachelor’s degree in biology from FAMU at age 19 and continued to advance his career, receiving a master’s in educational administration from Indiana University Bloomington before completing a doctorate in educational administration and supervision from Florida State University.
Prior to his tenure at FSU, Gant gained experience as a school principal in Tampa and contributed to the Florida Department of Education. His commitment to community engagement was evident, as he supported numerous students in achieving their doctoral degrees and conducted diversity training workshops, fostering an inclusive environment for all. In honor of his contributions, Florida State University has established the Jack Gant Innovative Community Program Award, an endowment awarded annually to College of Education students.
Gant also authored an autobiography entitled “An Educator From Telogia,” published in 2013, which chronicles his life, achievements, and the education landscape during his career. His daughter fondly referred to him as the “chief of the village,” underscoring his role as a generous and warm-hearted individual dedicated to the welfare of those around him.
James L. “Jack” Gant’s legacy as a pioneering educational leader continues to resonate, reflecting the profound impact he made on students, colleagues, and the broader community throughout his remarkable life.
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James L. ‘Jack’ Gant, First African American Dean at FSU, Passes Away
Additional Resources
- Legacy.com: James Gant Obituary
- Tallahassee.com: Jack Gant Remembered as Trailblazer
- Carter-Ricks Funeral Home: James Gant Obituary
- Dothan Eagle: James Gant Obituary
- Lansing State Journal: James Gant Obituary
- Wikipedia: James Gant
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