By Mike Russo
Somewhere in between all those responsibilities, Mangum, a longtime Baldwin resident, found the time to teach at Fordham University, something he has done for the past 40 years. In recognition of that milestone, the university presented Mangum with the Bene Merenti Medal at the Fordham University Convocation held March 8.
Mangum, 64, is a Ph.D., associate professor of African-American Studies History, focusing primarily on African-American and Caribbean history. He has also researched issues related to African-American education, and African-American involvement in the Catholic Church.
He said he has enjoyed watching the subjects evolve since he first began teaching them back in 1969. Mangum says there has been a growing interest and appreciation of the field of African-American studies both among students and scholars.
"It's a love of history and my desire to see people taking advantage of higher education as a means of advancement and rate of fulfillment," said Mangum of his experience as a professor over the last 40 years. "My favorite part of teaching is my interaction with the students both in the classroom and during office hours."
Mangum, who received a similar medal from Fordham when he reached the 20-year mark, said the past four decades have gone by very quickly. "It's a cause for reflection over my years at the institution and my relationship with the people."
While retirement is not in the front of his mind yet, Mangum said, he does hope to cut back a bit on his teaching to do additional research and writing.
Locally, Mangum is the former president of the Baldwin Oaks Civic Association. As head of the civic group in the 1970s, Mangum helped to revive the organization during a time when many people were moving in and out of Baldwin. Today, the group is highly respectable and influential within the community, and Mangum remains an active member.
Additionally, Mangum is a trustee on the Uniondale Board of Education, was a president of PTA groups at Uniondale elementary schools and the high school, and currently serves as the vice president on the Board of Trustees for the Uniondale Public Library. He is also a trustee for Plus Group Homes, a non-profit agency that runs residences for adults with autism.
In his little down time, Mangum said he enjoys walking, going to the movies, eating and spending time with friends and neighbors. And though it's often related to his work, he said he likes to travel. He's been to the Caribbean several times, and Africa twice. Mangum said he is very proud of his family's accomplishments, and they've been equally supportive of his.
"My wife has been a tremendous support me in my professional and community life," said Mangum. "I'm very proud of my children and their accomplishments and lives. Baldwin is a great place to raise a family. I see myself here...indefinitely."
Comments about this story? MRusso@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 283.
