Lou Montgomery: Susan Michalczyk honored for documentaries preserving his legacy

Susan Michalczyk was named Boston College's 2025 ACC UNITE Award recipient for co-creating two documentaries about Lou Montgomery, the university's first Black student-athlete. Her films and related projects aim to recover Montgomery's story and support a foundation in his name.

Susan Michalczyk was named Boston College's 2025 ACC UNITE Award recipient for her role in creating two documentaries about Lou Montgomery, the university's first Black student-athlete. Michalczyk is an associate professor in the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences and a longtime mentor to undergraduate students. Lou Montgomery joined BC's football team in 1937, remained part of the 1940 undefeated Team of Destiny, and still holds the school's yards-per-carry record. Michalczyk's films and related initiatives seek to recover Montgomery's history and to support young student-athletes through a growing foundation and new publications. Key facts: - The Atlantic Coast Conference named Michalczyk Boston College's 2025 ACC UNITE Award recipient, an honor for fostering unity and respect in the community. - Michalczyk co-created two documentaries: Lou Montgomery: A Legacy Restored (premiered 2016) and Lou Montgomery: His Story is Our Story (released 2023). - Lou Montgomery was Boston College's first Black athlete in 1937, played on the 1940 Team of Destiny, and was excluded from some bowl games because of Jim Crow laws. - Research for the films drew on material from the Sports Museum at TD Garden, recordings provided by historian Glenn Stout, and cooperation with Montgomery's family. - The 2016 premiere at the Museum of Fine Arts included audio of Montgomery that moved audience members and family, who recognized his voice. - Michalczyk says the ACC recognition has helped advance the Lou Montgomery Foundation; she is also working on a children's book and a series of young-adult stories related to the project. Summary: Michalczyk's documentaries have brought renewed attention to a buried chapter of Boston College history and prompted discussion about how the university remembers Lou Montgomery. The ACC UNITE Award acknowledged that work and has strengthened efforts to develop the Lou Montgomery Foundation. Michalczyk is also working on related books and stories as part of those ongoing efforts.