Dr. Cecelia Arrington

I sit in my home, in a space reserved for personal meditation, concerning my beginnings and my life. In my early life, I constantly and curiously wondered about my history. While attending Merritt College in Oakland, California, I was introduced to Professor Cecelia Arrington, who taught Black History. It led to a life of dedication to write about where my people came from. She was inspirational in opening that world to me. My heart tearfully cries when thinking about our loss, our Queen,...

Dr.Arrington was giving a lecture in the Merritt College cafeteria one day and I heard her voice and entered.That was in 1984.Its 2025 and I still can't forget hearing her that day.I have never personally seen anyone with that much fire since that day.She woke me up about our history which I was asleep on back then.RiP Great Woman!! You are Greatly missed and Loved... Tyrone Hoard 84-87, Merritt College

Dr. Arrington was a down-.to-earth person who was definitely about family. I had written an essay about my family and as the students would go to her desk and get their essays, she held on to mine and said "Their was one student who about her family and how she and her husband had different roles in raising their children. Then she bc called my name and said " Your essay covered the main points about the parents role and how they´re different, but creates balance in the family." Dr. Arrington...

I knew Dr. Arrington in 1969-70. She was my Black History instructor at the old Merritt College on Grove Street. . Dr. Arrington was passionate about her subject, energetic and friendly. She encouraged her students to expand their knowledge and continue in their chosen pursuits. She has made her contribution to history and our society. May she rest in peace with the knowledge that she had a tremendous impact on all of her students.

I called her God Mother, she saved my life 2 times. Once as her student and the second time as a friend. I just found out she passed- Her voice was one of a giant and her soul food was one of an artist.. I should have been by your side- I am sorry

Best college professor ever had. I knew nothing about Black History until the day I walked into Dr Arrington classroom at Merritt college. I will truly missed her.

I took your class for 2 semesters. I took your class in order to learn more about what was shared with me by my parents. Not only did I learn more, your classes verified everything. Thank you

I just thought about her in my life (1966-69). She still lives on. Thanks. (2021)

"My heart aches after I searched for you only to find out that you passed away. The world needed more of you but you left the world in the midst of this on going Pandemic. I regret didn´t get to say goodbye to you my one and only beloved proud black teacher. I know you are in a much better place. I am so pleased to have known you and have you as my instructor for Black History Studies at Merritt College campus situated in the beautiful hills of Oakland, California. Forever you are in...