History

Dr. James Horace Germany (1914-2001) was born in Union, Mississippi. He was a 1944 graduate of Anderson College's Theological Seminary located in Anderson, Indiana. During the preparation of a paper for social science, he discovered that there were limited opportunities in the South for students of color wishing to obtain a college education while preparing for ministry.

Recognizing the growing importance of an educational institution that would meet the needs of the Black community, Dr. Germany founded Bay Ridge College in Union, Mississippi in 1953. His vision was to prepare educated leaders for Black churches and the communities they served. The College provided opportunities for students who could not afford tuition to participate in a work study program that taught them a trade or equipped them with other employable skills.

After several years of operation in Mississippi, Dr. Germany moved the college to Kendleton, Texas due to the turbulent racial strife they faced on a daily basis. In February 2005, the History Channel aired a documentary: "Mississippi State Secrets", which depicts Dr. Germany's struggles and steadfast determination to succeed at any cost. It is aired alongside other historic struggles associated with the Civil Rights Movement. Relocating to Kendleton; a rural, historically African American town, was very appropriate for the continued vision and mission of the college.

Dr. Germany served as President of Bay Ridge for over thirty years, retiring in 1982. Because of his sacrifice, hard work and dedication, there are many alumni who are currently serving as educators, business leaders, clergy members, and in other civic leadership positions, in Nationally , in Africa and the Caribbean Islands. The need for development of our youth is as great today as it was during the 50's and 60's and we are inspired by the commitment of Dr. Germany and countless others who have laid the foundation for the dream and legacy upon which we are building.

We appreciate the efforts of the previous presidents who made sacrifices to keep Dr. Germany’s dream alive. They are: