Andrew Jackson Foster was the first Black Deaf student to graduate from Gallaudet University after the Jim Crow era. Although he was allowed to enroll, the atmosphere on campus was no less racist than the world outside it, and Foster's experiences with bullying spurred him to graduate in only three years. Undeterred, he pursued his life's mission, opening schools for Deaf children in countries throughout Africa. Gallaudet University is proud of Foster's legacy, but we must honor the hardships he faced on campus to truly understand and appreciate his great success.

Andrew J. Foster: Missionary, Educator, and Advocate exhibition  was unveiled on April 8, 2014 along with  Gallaudet at 150 and Beyond and Then and Now exhibitions as part of Gallaudet University's sesquicentennial celebration.

Andrew J. Foster: Missionary, Educator, and Advocate exhibition was a rotating exhibit that was on display until October 19, 2017.

Front side of the original exhibit sitting in Chapel Hall.The front side of the original rotating exhibit that was unveiled on April 8, 2014.
Photo courtesy of Dick Moore.

Back side of original Foster exhibit with three students looking at it.The back side of the original rotating exhibit with three Gallaudet students looking at the display.
Photo courtesy of Shane Dundas and the National Deaf Life Museum.