Clyde Kennard was a civil rights pioneer who fought against racial segregation in higher education in the United States. Born in 1927 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Kennard served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later attended the University of Chicago. In the 1950s, he attempted to enroll at the all-white Mississippi Southern College (now the University of Southern Mississippi) to pursue a degree in education. However, due to his race, Kennard was repeatedly denied admission.

Despite facing immense resistance and threats from white supremacists, Kennard persisted in his efforts to integrate the college. He was arrested on false charges and eventually sentenced to seven years in prison, which effectively ended his educational and civil rights activism. Kennard's case garnered national attention, with supporters advocating for his release and for racial equality in education.

In 1963, after serving several years in prison, Kennard was diagnosed with cancer and released on parole. He passed away in 1963 at the age of 36. Years later, in 2006, the Mississippi state government posthumously exonerated Kennard, acknowledging the injustice he faced and recognizing his courage and determination in the fight against segregation.

Clyde Kennard's story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Black individuals seeking equality in education during the Civil Rights era and the importance of continuing the fight for justice and racial equality.