Fisk Mourns the Loss of Honorary Alumna Cicely Tyson

President Dr. Leonard presenting Ms. Cicely Tyson with the Fisk Presidential Medal.

The Fisk University family is deeply saddened by the loss of legendary, award-winning actress Cicely Tyson. Tyson received an honorary degree from Fisk University in 1980. The iconic actress will forever be remembered for her powerful performances and contributions to not only the entertainment industry but the world.

Her filmography includes some of the most celebrated movies and television shows featuring Black women in major roles like her breakout role in Sounder, The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman, Roots, The Help and many more. Tyson was a trailblazer in the entertainment industry and set the tone for women of color for many years to come.  Throughout her career, Tyson earned several high honors, including two Primetime Emmy Awards, a Critics’ Choice Movie Award, half a dozen NAACP Image Awards and an honorary Academy Award in 2018.

With a remarkable career like Cicely which spanned over 60 years, her legacy will continue to be honored through her performances on the stage and on screen.