Quick Facts
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Biography
Rutherford H. Adkins (Lubby) (1924-1998) was a World War II pilot with the Tuskegee Airmen. He flew fourteen combat missions with the Tuskegee Airmen. He came home to complete his education and earn multiple degrees: he was the first African American to earn a Ph.D from the Catholic University in Washington D.C. Adkins went on to serve in many positions in higher education: he served as President of Knoxville College and Fisk University.
Military service
World War II
Adlkins was drafted into the army while he was attending college at Temple University in 1943. He attended Tuskegee University and graduated October 16, 1944. He was assigned to the 100th Fighter Squadron of the 332nd, and sent to Europe. In Europe he flew 14 combat mission mostly in support of bombing runs.
After the war
Adkins returned home to complete his education earning a bachelor's degree, a master's degree and a Ph.D. He then went on to a long distinguished career in education.
- Physics professor at the U.S. Naval Academy
- President of Knoxville College from 1976 to 1981
- President of Fisk University 1997
Education
Adkins attended college at Virginia Union University, Richmond, VA and Temple University, Philadelphia, PA. He was drafted before he could complete his education. After the war Adkins returned to earn a bachelor's degree from Virginia State University (1947). He also earned master's degree in physics from Howard University in 1949. And he was the first African American to receive a Ph.D from The Catholic University In Washington D.C. (1955).
Personal life
Adkins was married to Nanci Cherry Adkins and together they had two daughters. He went on to serve a long distinguished career in education. In 1997 he was diagnosed with cancer, and he died in 1998.
