Deborah Gibbs, a freshman at Slippery Rock State College, was the queen of the college's first Black arts festival in November 1970. To her right is Bill Stringer, director of the Black student talent show, and Gary L. Perkins, coordinator of special student programs at the college. Butler Eagle File Photo

Slippery Rock State College was preparing to host its first Black arts festival on Nov. 14 and 15, 1970.

Freshman student Deborah Gibbs would serve as the festival’s first queen, and would “reign over” festival events alongside her court. The festival was marked by appearances by Dick Gregory, a comedian and actor, and Nathan Davis, a jazz multi-instrumentalist.

The college’s Black Action Society sponsored the event. At the time, the college had about 120 Black students.