She later earned a Masters of International Affairs from Columbia University , specializing in culture and development in Africa .
Marie - Elena John made history in 1986 as the first Black woman valedictorian of New York 's City College ( CCNY ) .
Marie - Elena John later earned a Masters of International Affairs from Columbia University , specializing in culture and development in Africa .
Marie - Elena John made history in 1986 as the first Black woman valedictorian of New York 's City College ( CCNY ) .