Crystal Mikell Reynolds, Ph.D., a New Orleans native who now calls Terre Haute home, is a proud three time graduate of Indiana State University. A historian by training, she has taught a range of courses at several local colleges including Indiana State University as an adjunct for over 30 years. She reports that her 15 years as an instructor in the Correction Education Program for Indiana State University and Ivy Tech Community College was her most fulfilling role. Dr. Reynolds has a passion for the history of Indiana State University and Terre Haute in general. She has spent decades uncovering this remarkable history. She has received several honors for her groundbreaking research in the areas of local history and the history of people of color. She is the author of The History of the African American Student Experience at Indiana State University and is a contributor to the upcoming history of Indiana State University, Volume 2. She is a guest writer for the Tribune Star for Hidden Treasures weekly column. She currently works in the Adult Mental Health Court Program for the Hamilton Center where she utilizes her Tulane University law degree and can fulfill her passion for service. She is the proud mother of Alvin Jr. (a business lawyer/executive) and Yzabel (a music educator) and grandmother of Ava (diva).
Dr. Reynolds nominator had this to say, “Dr. Reynolds has been relentless in making the community aware of the history of African-Americans in the Terre Haute community. She has written numerous articles regarding historical figures in the community and establishing historical markers and remembrances such as the Willa Brown display of the first black aviator at the Hulman Center Airport. She is currently working on the establishment of the statute of Frederick Douglass, commemorating his visit to Terre Haute, the George Ward Pavilion, in honor of George Ward who was lynched under the Wabash River Bridge, and is also working on holding a commemorative meeting for Clarence Walker, the first African American to be allowed to play in a post-season basketball game when he played for Coach John Wooden at Indiana State Teacher’s College in 1948.”
Dr. Reynolds has accomplished so much within her education, research, and drive for the community. Listed are just a few of the projects she has had a hand in achieving the goal to uncover the hidden African American history of Terre Haute. She has been successful in these projects. She states, “while these projects focus on African Americans… that is one of my primary objectives…but I also research people of color and women in general as demonstrated by my bi weekly article in the Tribune Star.” See below…
https://sports.yahoo.com/isu-names-street-alum-diplomat-035900062.html
https://www.wthitv.com/news/historian-looks-to-bring-frederick-douglass-monument-to-downtown-terre-haute/article_7eef1edc-66af-11ed-b6f2-afa3e3f96b4f.html
We are honored to recognize an extraordinary dedicated individual like Dr. Crystal Reynolds. CENTURY 21 Elite will continue to recognize relentless individuals, businesses, and organizations like her in 2023. Nominate a relentless individual, business, or organization that gives their dedication, time, and expertise within the Wabash Valley community at The Relentless – CENTURY 21 ELITE TERRE HAUTE (terrehautehomes.com).
