Dr. Henry E. Cheaney-Portrait of Dedication

Dr. Henry E. Cheaney, is considered one of the leading authorities on the history of Kentucky African Americans. Dr. Cheaney was born in Henderson Kentucky in 1913. He is a retired professor of History from Kentucky State University, where he received his B.A. in History in 1936. He went on to recieve his M.A. and Ph.D. in history from the University of Chicago in 1961.

Dr. Cheaney gained legendary status at KSU as an outstanding professor and mentor to legions of students. He was considered a "Teacher's Teacher" while at KSU, often credited by students for "bringing history to life" during his tenure. He is also known for his lasting contributions to the rich history and heritage of Kentucky. He authored the article on "Kentucky" in the International Encyclopedia and a series of newspaper biographies on outstanding Kentucky African-Americans. He is also the co-author of the book"Kentucky's Black Heritage",which is a leading test book widely used in the Kentucky Public School System

Cheaney was one of the original 12 members that founded Xi Lambda Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated, located on the campus of Kentucky State University. He has been inducted into the Distinguished Service Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma, and is the first recipient of the A.Phillip Randolph Award, one of the highest honors in the Fraternity. He also hold memberships in the following organizations:American Historical Association, Southern Historical Association, Associationfor the Study of Afro-American Life and History, American Association of University Professors, Kentucky Advisory Commission on Public Documents, member of the Board of Directors of the Kentucky Historical Society, Alpha Kappa Mu Honors Society, to name a few.

Dr. Cheaney continues to be a lasting influence on all students aspiring to be educators in the Kentucky Educational School System.

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