To celebrate Black History Month, Shipley was proud to host Carlotta Walls LaNier, the youngest member of the Little Rock Nine, on Monday, February 3. Carlotta shared her inspirational story - fighting for the right of every child to learn and grow without discrimination - with grades three through twelve in an assembly in Yarnall Gymnasium.

Walls LaNier integrated Little Rock Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas in September 1957. She endured taunting and physical harassment from crowds of people outside the school doors, and even a bombing at her home. Upon hearing the news, President Dwight D. Eisenhauer sent the 101st Airborne Division of the U.S. Army to escort the Little Rock Nine to school.


In 1999, Walls LaNier and the Little Rock Nine were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal by President Bill Clinton. 

“Mrs. LaNier’s story illustrates the enormous sacrifices many individuals, including children, made to promote equity and strengthen our society in a time of tremendous turmoil,” said Shipley Upper School History teacher Dr. Kate Gillin. “Mrs. LaNier’s personal narrative helped our community appreciate the benefits of our diverse population and celebrate the potential of young people to promote positive change.”

Following the assembly, Shipley's Black Student Union spent quality time with Walls LaNier. 

This was a unique opportunity for Shipley to hear this important history firsthand—a reminder that Carlotta’s relentless efforts for equality and access to education continue to resonate today.

To watch Carlotta's address, visit our YouTube channel.