Frank L. Peterson, first black graduate from Pacific Union College, was hired as the first full-time black teacher at Oakwood Junior College, now Oakwood College, in 1917. He became the first known head of the OC music department in 1919, a program that included offerings in choir, band, orchestra, and instruments, plus a theory class. The position was only one of several duties that included serving as dean of men and English and history teacher.

In 1925, he took a male quartet he had organized on the first music tours by the college, traveling in the Midwest and South and on the East coast. These proved highly successful, the start of a touring tradition by OC music groups that has contributed significantly to the growth and success of the college.

Peterson served as the second black president of OC from 1945-1954. Under his leadership, the faculty and students working together created the largest building expansion program in the school's history. He would eventually be the first black person to serve as a General Conference vice-president.

ds 2006