Vanderbilt students got a sneak preview of the documentary film Triumph: The Untold Story of Perry Wallace on Nov. 8. Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos welcomed the students and others to the Wednesday night showing at the Belcourt Theatre near campus. The film chronicles the experiences of Wallace, a North Nashville native and Vanderbilt alumnus, as a pioneer who made history 50 years ago as the first African American varsity basketball player in the Southeastern Conference.
Following the screening of the film, Zeppos joined David Williams, vice chancellor for athletics and university affairs and athletics director at Vanderbilt, and Triumph filmmaker Rich Gentile for a question-and-answer session with the audience.
Vanderbilt provided financial support for the film, which will officially premiere in December. The university also will mark the 50th anniversary of Wallace’s landmark season this academic year with a series activities and events in recognition of Wallace’s legacy.