Charles and Mildred Nilon Endowed Teacher Education Scholarship

Established in 2016, this scholarship honors two beloved members of the local community, Charles and Mildred Nilon. Professor Emeritus Charles Nilon (1916-1991) joined the English Department in 1956 as the first black professor at CU Boulder. Among many important contributions, he spearheaded the university’s first Black Studies program that grew into the current Department of Ethnic Studies. Mildred Nilon became CU Boulder’s first black librarian in 1962. She also served as head of the Reference Department and the Assistant Director for Public Services. Eligible students must be enrolled in the School of Education, pursuing their teaching licensure and committed to advancing educational opportunities in under-resourced schools, especially those that serve African American communities.