Civil Rights Advocates to Receive UC s Highest Honor
Donald and Marian Spencers important and significant commitment to this community is most remarkable. For decade upon decade, they have each been pioneers in bringing the sentiments of righteousness to everyones attention in matters of civility, human rights, education and diversity.
Donald Spencer received his degree in Chemistry from the McMicken College of Arts and Sciences in 1936. Marian Spencer received her degree in English, also from the McMicken College of Arts and Sciences in 1942.
The Spencers became civil rights leaders in Cincinnati in 1945 with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Marian Spencer was president from 1983 to 1985. Their fight for civil rights has never ended.
Donald Spencer was the first black member of the Cincinnati Board of Realtors, President of the Cincinnati Association of Real Estate Brokers, a board member of the Bankers Club, and served as President of the Board of Ohio University.
Marian Spencer
In 1983, Marian Spencer became the first African-American woman elected to Cincinnati City Council and was the first female president of the Cincinnati chapter of the NAACP. She was chosen as the Cincinnati Enquirer Woman of Year, President of the Cincinnati Chapter of Links, Inc., and Chair of the YWCAs 125th Anniversary. She was named a Lifetime Achiever by Applause! Magazine and the Greater Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce selected her as one of the Great Living Cincinnatian Award recipients.
The Spencers continue to be involved in the civic, community and political life of our city and state. Each has served on numerous boards and commissions and led any number of civic drives. Each has served on the Board of Trustees of major state universities. Their leadership work pioneered many thousands of African-American students who followed their paths. They continue to inspire this generation.
Mr. and Mrs. Spencer reside in Cincinnati, Ohio. They have two children.
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