Centennial Celebration and National Recognition

The 100-year celebration included a "Finale Weekend" recently, themed "W. H. Lanier: Celebrating a Century of Resilience, Excellence, and Future Possibilities." It was a three-day event that featured various activities, including a parade, pep rally, and a homecoming celebration. The school was also designated as a National Monument in recognition of its historical significance and contributions, especially during the Civil Rights Movement.

Civil Rights History and Student Activism

Lanier High School, known initially as Lanier Junior-Senior High School, was first organized in 1925. During lunch on May 30, 1963, in response to the Woolworth's sit-in, Lanier High School students staged a historic walkout. They gathered on the school lawn, singing freedom songs, when local police arrived with dogs. The students and some parents were clubbed. The walkout inspired other area high schools to stage similar walkouts.

The Beloved 833 West Maple Street

In 1925, the school's original location in Jackson was 136 East Ash Street. The school remained there until February 8, 1954, when it relocated to its current site at 833 West Maple Street. The 833 holds dear to alumnae hearts. They even have a hand gesture of the address signifying their love and identification with the school and one another.

Notable Alumni

Some of Jackson's most notable students graduated or attended Lanier, including:

• Richard Wright: Renowned African-American author of classic works such as Native Son and Black Boy.
• Lerone Bennett Jr.: Author, social historian, and longtime editor at Ebony magazine, known for works like "Before the Mayflower."
• Monta Ellis: Former NBA player, notably with the Golden State Warriors, known for his impressive scoring ability.
• Dr. Gilbert Mason, Sr.: Physician and civil rights leader, prominent for organizing "wade-ins" that led to the desegregation of Mississippi Gulf Coast beaches.
• Daryl Jones: Former Florida State Senator and the first African-American to serve as President of the Florida Senate.
• Arvesta Kelly: Professional basketball player who played in the American Basketball Association (ABA), and was also a National Basketball Association (NBA) pick.
• Randall Pinkston: Award-winning journalist who worked for CBS News, covering major national and international stories.
• Kenneth Stokes: Long-serving Jackson city councilman, influential in local politics and community initiatives.
• Captain Zeita Merchant: Commanding Officer of the U.S. Coast Guard Personnel Service Center. She is the first female African American to be appointed rear admiral lower half in Coast Guard history.
• Dorothy Moore: Soul and blues singer, best known for the classic hit, "Misty Blue."
• Dr. Roderick D. Little: Director of Bands at Jackson State University, influential in Jackson's music and education scenes.