As the University ends the summer semester, the Prairie View A&M University family is mourning the death of noted educator Dr. Jewel L. Prestage, former dean of the Benjamin Banneker Honors College. She was 82 years old.

Prestage was the first African-American woman to receive a doctorate in Political Science in the United States, and through her efforts, became one of the most notable educators in her field.

After receiving a Ph.D. degree in Political Science from the University of Iowa in 1954 at the age of 22, Dr. Prestage worked as a part of the Southern University Political Science department for 33-years before retiring.

As the nationā€™s pioneer African American woman academician in her field, she joined PVAMU and served for two years as a part of the political science faculty and later led the Benjamin Banneker Honors College for eight years. In September 2002, she retired after an impressive academic career that spanned 48 years.

Prestage also held honorary degrees from the University of the District of Columbia, Loyola University of Chicago, and Spelman College. While her remarkable career in higher education and public service has resulted in many achievements, Dr. Jewel Prestage leaves a legacy of inspiration that she has provided to the thousands of students she has taught and mentored.

Dr. Prestage is survived by her husband, Dr. James Prestage, distinguished professor emeritus and chancellor emeritus of Southern University A&M College in Baton Rouge, LA. and their five children, thirteen grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Memorial services for Prestage are Saturday, August 9, at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston, Texas.

The visitation will be on the same day as the service.

 

1:00-1:30 p.m.Ā Ā  Ā Ā FarewellĀ  by the Ā Ā Links Incorporated

1:30 -2:00 p.m.Ā Ā  Farewell by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated

2:00-3:00p.m.Ā Ā Ā Ā  Viewing of the Remains

3:00 p.m.Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā  Ā Ā Ā Ā Funeral Service

 

Funeral services entrusted to:

Sugarland Mortuary

1818Ā  Eldridge Road

Houston, Texas 77438

-dr-jewel-prestage