Southwest Association of Student Assistance Programs

What was happening in the world that made his work important?

• Civil Rights Movement: Mason Jr. was involved in the civil rights movement during the 1950s and 1960s, a period marked by efforts to end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans. His advocacy in education contributed to the push for equal access to quality education for all students, regardless of race.

• Educational Equity: His career focused on promoting educational equity, particularly for African American students. This aligned with the broader movement seeking to dismantle systemic inequalities in education, highlighted by landmark cases like Brown v. Board of Education (1954), which declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional.

• Community Empowerment: Mason Jr. worked to empower marginalized communities through education and mentorship. His efforts were part of a larger trend in the 1960s and 1970s that emphasized grassroots organizing and community development as means to address social issues.

• Response to Poverty: His focus on education was also intertwined with efforts to combat poverty, particularly within African American communities. This aligns with the War on Poverty initiated in the 1960s, which aimed to reduce poverty through various social programs and reforms.

• Cultural and Social Change: His work took place during a time of significant cultural change in the United States, including shifts in attitudes toward race, gender, and social justice. Mason Jr. contributed to these changes through his educational initiatives and advocacy for inclusive practices.

• Integration of Schools: As schools began to integrate following the civil rights movement, Mason Jr. played a role in addressing the challenges that came with this transition, advocating for policies and practices that supported diverse student populations.

• Legacy of Activism: His contributions to education and social justice have been recognized as part of a broader legacy of activism that has influenced subsequent generations of educators and activists committed to equity and inclusion.

Walter O. Mason Jr. 's work laid the foundation for generations of students to access, thrive, and graduate from college. His leadership in education policy, TRIO programs, and civil rights continues to inspire those fighting for equity in higher education.

The Legacy continues as honorees are awarded one of these three prestigious awards.

• Walter O. Mason Education Foundation (portraying its namesake): Established in 1988 by SWASAP, it offers annual scholarships ($500 each) for TRIO participants in AR, LA, NM, OK, and TX. Click the link for more information.

  
  

• Walter O. Mason Jr. Award: The highest honor from the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE), given at national TRIO conferences to those exemplifying his legacy. Click the link for more information.  

  
  

• Walter O. Mason Jr. Kingdom Diversity Hall of Fame Award: Presented by Oklahoma Baptist University to honor efforts in diversity and inclusion within its community. Click the link for more information.

  
  

Testimonies inspired by Walter O Mason Jr. 

 “If you work in TRIO, you have the responsibility to be our brother’s keeper. Like Walter O. Mason, you must be dedicated to the advancement of all…”

—Antonio C. Stephens

“One of Mason’s singular talents was breaking through and forming a rainbow coalition.”   

—Randy Schroeder

“TRIO not only taught me skills, but it taught me that I have worth, unlimited potential, and that I belong anywhere I want to be.” 

—Lydia Perez, Upward Bound Alumni

‘’When I think of Walter O Mason, I think of integrity and leadership.”

—-Willie Zanders, Founding Member SWASAP

“He is my hero, my mentor, and he’ll always be.”

—Oscar Hernandez, Project Stay, Inc.