On December 21, 2024, a group of determined alumni residing in metropolitan Detroit and other parts of the world united through their shared love for “Dear Prairie View” to charter the Prairie View A&M University Metro Detroit Alumni Chapter (MDAC).

     The historical connection between Michigan and Prairie View dates back to the 1940s. The Metro Detroit Alumni Chapter is committed to continuing the legacy established by the Solomon family, the original Detroit Alumni Chapter, and the founders of the Prairie View A&M University Michigan Club.

The Solomon Years

     Dr. Thomas R. "T.R." Solomon earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from Wayne State University. While working at the Detroit Post Office, he developed an interest in politics and was encouraged to further his studies at the University of Michigan, where he earned his Ph.D. in Political Science.

     Following graduation, Dr. Solomon was hired to develop the Political Science curriculum at Prairie View A&M University. During his tenure on “The Hill,” he served in several roles, including Professor of Political Science, Chair of the Department of Political Science, Registrar, Dean of Students, Coordinator of the USAID Program, and Chief of the Aid Program in Africa. He retired in 1972, and T.R. Solomon Street, which remains on campus today, was named in his honor.

     His son, James Solomon, spent his formative years on the Prairie View campus and later graduated from the university. He returned to Detroit, where he served as an educator and principal.

     Mr. Solomon is recognized as a pioneering Detroit educator who introduced generations of students to the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) experience by organizing college tours throughout the South. Although he had a special affinity for Prairie View A&M University, he encouraged students to explore educational opportunities at HBCUs across the country.

     He is credited with influencing thousands of Detroit students to pursue an HBCU education. Many Michigan students who attended Prairie View during the 1980s and 1990s recall Dr. James Solomon as the person who encouraged them to consider the university. With scholarship support and a leap of faith, these students traveled to Prairie View for an educational experience that would change their lives.

The Michigan Club

     For many Michigan students arriving at Prairie View during the 1980s, traveling approximately 1,400 miles from home to the Deep South was intimidating.

     Eager to create a home away from home, Kelly Doakes, Kimberly Neely, Kimberly Owens, and Jason Smith established the Michigan Club during the 1988–1989 academic year.

     The club was more than a campus support network. Its reach extended to Detroit, where members gathered during holiday breaks for fellowship and gave back to their community by providing tutoring support to local high school students and recruiting future Panthers.

     The legacy of the Michigan Club remains strong. Nearly four decades later, the club continues to be active at Prairie View A&M University, providing a support network and a sense of belonging for students from Michigan.