News Update: Jan Wrede ’64

OUTSPOKEN: The Olly Neal Story by Olly Neal As told to Jan Wrede ’64 was published June 1, 2020. It is available on Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/Outspoken-Olly-Neal-Story-Jr/dp/1945624256/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=olly+neal+story+wrede&qid=1593673498&sr=8-1

This is what has been said about the book:

“Olly Neal’s autobiography provides a vivid and candid narrative of his lifelong commitment to the struggle for black freedom and equality. Neal’s story is not only instructive, valuable, and worthwhile in its own telling, but it is also an important addition to the far too few firsthand accounts of black lives in Arkansas. This book, like Neal, is a true state treasure.”
—Dr. John A. Kirk, the Geroge W. Donaghey Distinguished Professor of History at the University of Arkansas at LIttle Rock. 
 
This book is especially timely in 2020. It is an easy read and those at Ripon who are interested in diversity and racial equity might use this book to help students and staff learn first hand the struggles and successes of an inspiring but little known black civil rights leader.