Award-winning actress S. Epatha Merkerson has made a generous $1 million donation toĀ Talladega College, an Alabama HBCU, according to multiple media reports.
Merkerson served as the keynote speaker for the Alabama-based institutionās 150th commencement ceremony, held on May 4. Talladega College is the oldest private historically Black college in the state.
Rica Lewis-Payton, chair of the collegeās Board of Trustees, praised the gift and highlighted its significance.
āThis contribution will have a profound impact on our college,ā Lewis-Payton said in a statement to WIAT CBS 42. āIt ensures that Talladega remains a beacon in the communityānurturing and developing future generations of leaders. We are truly fortunate to have generous supporters like Ms. Merkerson, who believe in our mission and are committed to investing in our future.ā
In recognition of her contributions and accomplishments, the college awarded Merkerson an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters.
Importance of giving back
Reflecting on her donation, Merkerson shared her motivation. āItās important to give back,ā she said in a televised interview. āIāve had a fortunate career, and during my visit here, I met some incredible people who welcomed me warmly. It felt like home. Iām inspired by what this college has accomplished over the past 150 years.ā
Best known for her long-running role as Lieutenant Anita Van Buren onĀ Law & Order, she appeared in over 390 episodes. Merkerson currently stars as Sharon Goodwin on NBCāsĀ Chicago Med. Her acclaimed film roles includeĀ Lackawanna Blues,Ā Radio, andĀ Black Snake Moan. She earned an Emmy and Golden Globe for her powerful performance inĀ Lackawanna Blues. A celebrated stage actress, she has also appeared in Broadway productions such asĀ The Piano Lesson. Merkersonās career reflects her depth, versatility, and lasting impact on American entertainment.
Merkerson didnāt attend an HBCU, she earned herĀ Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)Ā degree fromĀ Wayne State UniversityĀ in Detroit, Michigan. Prior to that, she attendedĀ Eastern Michigan UniversityĀ but transferred to Wayne State to focus more specifically on her theater studies.