Welcome to The Sumner-7 Project
The Sumner-7 Project is dedicated to preserving and honoring the legacy of Sumner High School—one of the earliest and most successful self-start African American educational efforts, founded months before West Virginia achieved statehood. Through research, storytelling, and community engagement, we work to ensure that this history, and the people who built it, are never forgotten.
About The Sumner-7 Project
Vision
Our vision is to continue the work begun by Sumner 7 in 1862—opening doors to education through access and opportunity. We seek to honor the school’s legacy by advocating for the inclusion of Sumner High School’s story in African American and U.S. history curricula across all West Virginia public schools.
We will also partner with organizations and institutions to provide scholarships and educational support for standardized test preparation, including the ACT, SAT, MCAT, and LSAT. By advancing this mission, we help students reach their full potential and strengthen the communities they will go on to serve.
History of Sumner High School
The Parkersburg Colored School was established in 1862 by African American men who risked their lives to provide their community formal education. Renamed Sumner High School in honor of abolitionist Charles Sumner, it served for 93 years as a testament resilience and commitment to education. The dedication of its faculty and students highlights education's role in fostering better choices and stable. Though the building no longer exists, its legacy endures, reminding us its significant impact on American history.
Sumner in Pictures
About the Author & Founder of the Sumner-7 Project
Dr. Michael J. Rice is a dedicated professional and a thoughtful leader with a commitment to education for students of all ages. Hailing from Parkersburg, Virginia, he authored his debut book, The Sumner7: A History of Sumner High School, Parkersburg, WV, which highlights one of the earliest and most successful African American educational initiatives in the state. Dr. Rice earned doctorate in Educational Leadership from Northcentral University and currently holds position of Assistant Dean of Admissions & Student Affairs at Duquesne University College of Oste Medicine.
"Parkersburg native publishes book on historic Sumner School" Brandon Lewis-WTAP News
Contact us for speaking engagements and book signings
Email: thesumner7@gmail.com
phone: 740.258.2452