麻豆视频

Delaware Tech Honors James "Sonny" Knott during Black History Month Celebration

February 27, 2026

麻豆视频 recognized Delaware native James "Sonny" Knott at its annual Black History Month Celebration on Feb. 26. A former student and current board member of the historic Hockessin Colored School #107, Knott played a key role in efforts to save and restore the landmark school, which now serves as a center for diversity, inclusion, and social equity. Through decades of volunteer service across local organizations, Knott has uplifted generations by sharing his story, mentoring youth, and demonstrating the power of education, resilience, and community.

Since 1998, Delaware Tech's Stanton and Wilmington campuses have celebrated Black History Month by honoring a member of the community for their outstanding personal and professional achievements. The College selects individuals who have made significant contributions to the community and have made an impact on improving the quality of life throughout the state.

"We are proud to be recognizing James 'Sonny' Knott as this year's honoree," said Dr. Lora Johnson, vice president and campus director for the College's Wilmington campus. "His life reminds us of the power of education, the strength of community, and how one person's dedication can shape the lives of many for generations to come."

Governor Matt Meyer and Mayor John Carney attended the event, sharing reflections on Knott's impact and presenting him with tributes noting his contributions to his community and the state of Delaware. Additional tributes were presented from other state and local officials.

Knott was introduced by Dr. David Wilk, interim CEO at the Hockessin Colored School #107 and professor & director of the real estate program at Temple University. Wilk shared how HCS #107 was saved from a sheriff's sale thanks to Knott and fellow former students and was eventually transformed into a center for educational enrichment, diversity workshops, and community innovation and collaboration.

Knott told several stories during the College's celebration about his time at HCS #107.

"I walked into that school. It was one room, with six grades, and one teacher," said Knott. "We never got new books. See, we got the old books from the white school up on the hill. Sometimes there'd be more names on that white label in the back of the book than pages still there for us to read."

Knott's sense of humor and spirit also came through in his remarks, which received lots of laughter and applause from the audience.
"Come see our school, come see our history," he said as he wrapped up his remarks. "Call me up, and I'll let you in and give you a tour. Just come soon because I'm 95 years old and might not be here much longer!"

About James "Sonny" Knott:
James "Sonny" Knott is a community advocate and steward of history whose life reflects resilience, service, and a deep commitment to helping others. Born in Washington, D.C., in 1930, Sonny moved to Delaware at age 7 and began attending the Hockessin Colored School #107, a one-room schoolhouse that educated Black children during the era of legalized segregation. The school later played a significant role in the landmark 1954 Brown v. Board of Education decision that desegregated schools nationwide. After completing his early education at HCS #107, Sonny attended Howard High School, then the only high school in Delaware open to Black students.

After graduating, Sonny entered the U.S. Army during a pivotal time when the military had recently been integrated. Following his service, he built a career working at DuPont; Elsmere Veterans Hospital, where he oversaw the maintenance program for 30 years; and Wilmington Trust, often holding more than one job at a time to support his family.

In 2012, when the historic Hockessin Colored School #107 faced a sheriff's sale, Sonny joined a group of volunteers to save the property and helped establish Friends of Hockessin Colored School #107, Inc. Through years of dedication, the building was restored and reimagined as a center for diversity, inclusion, and social equity. Today, Sonny serves on the HCS #107 Board, sharing his firsthand perspective on segregation and educational equity.

Beyond his work with HCS #107, Sonny has volunteered for decades at Delcastle Technical High School, mentoring students in the auto body program. He was a founding organizer of the DelClassics Car Show, which raises funds to help vocational students compete nationally through SkillsUSA. He has counseled students, attended parent meetings, provided rides when needed, and even purchased work clothes so students could participate in shop classes. Many students credit his guidance with helping them grow into confident, responsible young adults.

His passion for cars and community led him to become a founding member of the Soul Riders Auto Club of Delaware in 2002, where he served two terms as president. Affectionately called "The Godfather," he is known for his leadership and the energy he brings to every event.

Sonny is also a devoted member of Chippey Chapel Church. Since 1980, he has served in various roles, currently as president of the Board of Trustees. He is known for stepping in wherever help is needed, whether that's repairing a leak or serving as worship leader for a service. Those who know him say he lives by the motto, "Be ye always prepared," and puts his faith into action every day.

Respected and admired by all who know him, Sonny Knott continues to inspire others through his generosity, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to strengthening his community and preserving the stories that shape it.

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