Emory & Henry College proudly announces the dedication of the Squire Miller Henry Residence Hall, a monumental step forward in the institution’s commitment to inclusivity and acknowledgment of its rich historical tapestry. The dedication ceremony, held on Saturday, October 14, marked a significant milestone in the College’s history. This newly dedicated residence hall stands as the first campus building named after a Black person in recognition of the extraordinary life and legacy of Dr. Squire Miller Henry.
The Squire Miller Henry Residence Hall, affectionately known as the People Empowering Antiracist Communities Everywhere House (P.E.A.C.E. House), is a two-story, 22-person facility designed to foster an intimate living experience for its inhabitants. The building features a mix of single and double rooms, with all bathrooms considered suite-style, ensuring comfort and convenience for the residents. On the main floor, an open living room concept awaits, complete with lounge space, a fully equipped kitchen and dining area, and a conveniently located laundry room.
Squire Miller Henry’s story is one of resilience, integrity, and commitment to community. Born into slavery in 1845 or 1847 in Rockbridge County, Virginia, Mr. Henry found employment at Emory & Henry College, working diligently as a porter and laborer. His life was marked by his dedication to his family, faith, and community. Mr. Henry’s legacy is still alive today through his descendants, many of whom attended the dedication ceremony, including his great-granddaughter Marie Lampkins, who also accepted a Posthumous Doctorate of Divinity conferred upon Mr. Henry at the college’s 175th commencement ceremony in May 2023.
Cutting the ribbon to dedicate the residence hall, E&H student Daner Vineyard ’27, Dr. Cindy Kennedy~Reedy, Dr. Jerry Jones, Rev. Sharon Wright, Shannon Earle, Mary Lampkins, Marie Lampkins, Debbie Foster, Dr. John Holloway (front row, left to right)
“When the College told me that Grandpa Squire would be given an honorary doctorate degree at the graduation in May, I just couldn’t believe it,” said Lampkins. “When I found out that the College would be naming a building on campus for him, I was speechless. After all these years, Squire Henry is getting the recognition he deserves,” she continued.
Reflecting on the significance of this occasion, President John W. Wells remarked, “The dedication of the Squire Miller Henry Residence Hall is a profound moment in our College’s history. It signifies our commitment to honoring the often-overlooked contributions of individuals like Dr. Henry, who played an integral role in shaping our institution. This building stands as a symbol of our dedication to honoring their memory as well as to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment.”
The Emory & Henry College community is deeply grateful to all who contributed to the realization of the Squire Miller Henry Residence Hall. This dedication represents a pivotal step forward in the college’s ongoing efforts to recognize and celebrate the diverse voices that have shaped its past and continue to enrich its future.
Dr. Cindy Kennedy-Reedy, chair of the DEI&B committee on the Board of Trustees, concluded, “Emory & Henry is committed to creating an environment that is committed to DEI&B, and we each have a personal responsibility to take ownership in these initiatives.”
