The Thomas I. Atkins LLC, established in 1994, is named for Indiana University’s first African American student body president. In 1960, Atkins became the first African American student body president in a Big Ten university. He was also the president of the Indiana University Residence Hall Association. He graduated from IU with a B.A. in Political Science in 1961. Later, he became a graduate of Harvard Law School and played a central role in the efforts to desegregate busing in Boston.

The Atkins Living-Learning Center is a collaboration between the Department of African American and African Diaspora Studies, the College of Arts and Sciences, and Residential Programs and Services, with support from the Groups Scholars Program and the 21st Century Scholars offices. The Atkins LLC is open to any IU student interested in leadership development by engaging in the study of African American history and culture. Our community focuses on academic achievement, community service, and cultural enrichment.