To celebrate Black History Month, BG Falcon Media would like to highlight BGSU’s black alumni that helped to make this university and the world a better place.
Nate Thurmond
Nate Thurmond, listed on NBA’s 50 Greatest Players, started his journey at BGSU in the 1960s. He went on to become an NBA Hall of Famer, a 7-time All-Star and the first player to get an official quadruple-double. Nate Thurmond attended Bowling Green State University (BGSU) from 1960 to 1963. He has also been inducted to the BGSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1975. He was drafted into the NBA in 1963 by the San Francisco Warriors. With an extensive athletic career at BGSU, Thurmond continued to break records in the NBA.
Dr. Adena Williams Loston
With a background in education and leadership, Dr. Adena Williams Loston is serving as the president of St. Philip’s College in San Antonio, Texas. She has also worked with NASA, focusing on workforce development and educational initiatives. Dr. Adena Williams Loston earned her Master of Education degree from Bowling Green State University in 1974 and her Doctor of Philosophy in educational administration and supervision in 1979.
Leon Bibb
Leon Bibb, a distinguished journalist, was Ohio’s first African American primetime news anchor. Leon Bibb graduated from Bowling Green State University (BGSU) in 1966 with a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism. After his undergraduate studies, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he returned to BGSU for graduate courses from 1969 to 1971. Bibb became an anchor and commentator for WKYC in Cleveland. Bibb has been honored with awards including the Cleveland Press Club Distinguished Journalist Award.
Bernie Casey
Bernie Casey, a former NFL player and actor, graduated from BGSU before pursuing a career that covered both sports and the arts. Bernie Casey graduated from BGSU in 1961 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Art Education. He later returned to BGSU and earned his Master of Fine Arts degree in 1966.
