Who was Earl Lee Moseley Jr.?
Remembering the first African American fraternity member to graduate from Southwestern
Earl Lee Moseley Jr. (1962-2010) was a groundbreaking individual at Southwestern University, known for his exceptional contributions to student life, leadership, and community service. As the first African American student to graduate as a member of a fraternity at the university, Moseley broke barriers and set new standards for inclusivity. His legacy, marked by his involvement in numerous campus organizations and his commitment to civic engagement, continues to inspire future generations through the endowed scholarship established in his name.
Earl Lee Moseley Jr. (February 7, 1962 – February 25, 2010) was a transformative figure in the history of Southwestern University. Born in Seguin, Texas, Moseley’s journey at Southwestern was marked by numerous firsts and significant contributions that paved the way for future generations of students from underrepresented backgrounds.
One of Moseley's most notable achievements was becoming the first African American student to pledge and be initiated into the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity’s Alpha Omicron chapter in 1981. Moseley's decision to pledge Pi Kappa Alpha came at a time when there were no Black faculty and no Black staff members outside of those working in the Commons cafeteria and Student Union, and when Black students made up less than 2% of the student population. The year before Moseley pledged Pike in 1981, Gerald Shaw joined Kappa Sigma to become the first Black fraternity member on campus, but he left the University the following year. Moseley’s grandmother advised him that pledging a fraternity would be a good experience both for him and for the fraternity. His successful integration into Greek life helped open doors for future students of color to participate in these historically exclusive organizations.
Moseley was not only a groundbreaker in Greek life but also a highly active member of the university community. He majored in political science and was involved in various student organizations. He served as the vice president of the Young Democrats in 1980, was a member of Student Judiciary, and participated in a re-enactment of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case as part of a law class in 1981. His leadership extended to the residence halls, where he served as a Resident Advisor (RA) in Herman Brown Hall.
Moseley’s involvement with the Southwestern Chorale and The Extraordinaires, a select chorus that also once included Edward Clark ‘69, highlighted his musical talents and commitment to enriching campus culture. He also played a significant role in organizing and MC-ing the Black History Month Celebration program in 1984, demonstrating his dedication to promoting cultural awareness and diversity on campus.
Moseley’s leadership skills were further recognized through his four-year membership in the S.U. Student Foundation. Founded in 1979, the Student Foundation acts as a liaison between the student body and university administration, planning and executing alumni events and Homecoming. Moseley’s participation in this prestigious and selective organization underscored his commitment to fostering a strong sense of community and enhancing student life at Southwestern.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, the Association of Southwestern University Alumni awarded Moseley the Citation of Merit in 2007. This award honors former students who have performed outstanding civic and professional services. Moseley’s receipt of this award reflects the high esteem in which he was held by his peers and the broader university community.
After graduating from Southwestern in 1984, Moseley continued to make significant impacts in the field of higher education and community service. He worked at Texas State University in various capacities, including coordinator of student activities and assistant director of multicultural student affairs. His dedication to student development and civic engagement extended beyond the university, as he became involved with the San Marcos City Council, the San Marcos Housing Authority, and the United Way of Hays County.
Moseley’s professional journey also included serving as the director of major gifts for Huston-Tillotson College in Austin and the interim executive director of the Capital City African American Chamber of Commerce. His work in these roles further cemented his reputation as a leader committed to improving his community and fostering opportunities for others.
In honor of Moseley’s life and legacy, the Earl Lee Moseley Jr. Endowed Scholarship Fund was established after his death in 2010. This scholarship provides financial assistance to juniors and seniors at Southwestern University who demonstrate exceptional civic engagement and leadership. It ensures that Moseley’s legacy of service, leadership, and community involvement continues to inspire and support future generations of students.
Earl Lee Moseley Jr.'s contributions to Southwestern University and beyond are profound and multifaceted. As one of the early African American students at the university and the first to participate in Greek life, Moseley broke down barriers and created new pathways for inclusivity and diversity. His involvement in various student organizations, leadership roles, and civic engagements exemplifies a life dedicated to service and positive change.
Remembering Moseley is crucial not only for acknowledging the strides made in diversifying Southwestern University but also for inspiring current and future students to strive for excellence, leadership, and community service. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the impact one individual can have on shaping a more inclusive and compassionate society. By commemorating Moseley’s achievements and contributions, Southwestern can continue to honor and build upon the values he embodied, ensuring that his memory remains an integral part of the university’s history and future.
