The Many Lives of Andrew Young Exhibit

The Many Lives of Andrew Young is a retrospective exhibition celebrating the extraordinary life and legacy of Ambassador Andrew J. Young, a civil rights leader, diplomat, public servant, and proud alumnus of Hartford Seminary, now Hartford International University for Religion and Peace (HIU).

Through photographs, memorabilia, and storytelling in Ambassador Young's own words, the exhibition explores the many chapters of his life, from his early years in New Orleans and his ministry to his work alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the Civil Rights Movement. It also highlights his service as a U.S. Congressman, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, and Mayor of Atlanta, where he helped transform the city into an international destination. The exhibition traces his continued work around the world through the Andrew J. Young Foundation.

The exhibition was created by the National Monuments Foundation and first unveiled at the Millennium Gate Museum in Atlanta, Georgia, in early 2022 as part of celebrations marking Ambassador Young's 90th birthday. It originated as a coffee-table book of the same title, written by AJC journalist Ernie Suggs, which chronicles Young's remarkable journey as a civil rights leader and American public servant.

The exhibition celebrates a lifetime dedicated to advancing civil rights, diplomacy, economic opportunity, and social justice. It also underscores the lasting connection between Ambassador Young and HIU. A 1955 graduate of what was then Hartford Seminary, Young credits his education there with helping lay the foundation for his life's work: "All of it was seeds planted here."

Ambassador Young's life reflects the power of education, bridge-building, and principled leadership to create meaningful change. His legacy resonates deeply with HIU's mission to foster interreligious understanding, peacebuilding, and positive social transformation.

It is a great honor for HIU to host this exhibition and celebrate the life and enduring legacy of one of its distinguished alumni.

The exhibit is open to the public during HIU's business hours. No RSVP required; please check in at the front desk.

Normal business hours, excluding holidays, are:
Mondays - Thursdays: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Fridays: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM