Dr. James H. Costen was Presbyterian minister and educator, and served as president of the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) from 1983 to 1997. In 1969, he became the first Dean of the Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary  the only historically Black theological seminary of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Costenss records tell the story of an active educator and administrator with the papers providing rich resources in the study of African American religion and education in the South.

At the AUC Robert W. Woodruff Library we are always striving to improve our digital collections. We welcome additional information about people, places, or events depicted in any of the works in this collection. To submit information, please contact us at DSD@auctr.edu. 
Jun 13, 2019

James H. Costen Collection

Dr. James H. Costen was Presbyterian minister and educator, and served as president of the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) from 1983 to 1997. In 1969, he became the first Dean of the Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary the only historically Black theological seminary of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Costenss records tell the story of an active educator and administrator with the papers providing rich resources in the study of African American religion and education in the South.

At the AUC Robert W. Woodruff Library we are always striving to improve our digital collections. We welcome additional information about people, places, or events depicted in any of the works in this collection. To submit information, please contact us at DSD@auctr.edu

For:
  • Subjects = Commencement ceremonies
Unidentified graduates find their seats for the ceremony.
James H. Costen Collection
The 1978 commencement speaker giving his address to the graduates and other attendees.
James H. Costen Collection
The 1978 commencement speaker gives his address. Written on recto: Commencement Speaker 1978.
James H. Costen Collection
I.T.C. chorus singing led by Melva Costen. Written on recto: Music I.T.C. Center Chorus.
James H. Costen Collection
An unidentified man receives a red hood as he crosses the stage.
James H. Costen Collection
The 1978 commencement speaker gives his address the I.T.C. class of 1978.
James H. Costen Collection
An unidentified man crouches as he receives a red hood at graduation.
Graduating class sits attentively as a crowd cheers.
James H. Costen Collection
Unidentified man receives a diploma from President Grant Shockley.
James H. Costen Collection
An unidentified man in a cap and gown smiles.
James H. Costen Collection
Unidentified man smiles and shakes hand with Dr. Grant Shockley while taking his diploma.
Written on recto: Presidents of the A.U.C. Center and the Chancellor.
Dr. Copher holds a drink as he is flanked by Dr. & Mrs. Shockley. Written on rector: Scenes from XMAS party (1978) Dr. & Mrs. Grant S. Shockley and Dr. Copher-Vice President at X-mas party.
The President, Board of Trustees, and Deans at class of 1978 graduation. Written on recto: Platform Participants (President, Board of Trustees, and Deans).
James H. Costen Collection
People gather in a gymnasium for a commencement ceremony.
James H. Costen Collection
An unidentified man presides over a commencement ceremony.
James H. Costen Collection
The graduating class of 1964 stand at the steps of an unidentified building for a class photo. Written on verso: Commencement at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary - May, 1964. Th.M. Degree James H. Costen - Back Floor Left.