Siena College is honoring Albert Mattingly, the first known graduate of color from the college.

The school dedicated a plaque for him on Tuesday.

He attended Siena following his service in the U.S. Marine Corps.

The ceremony is a key part of its commitment to recognize those from its past, and a chance to celebrate together as a community strengthened through diversity, the college said.

“We are dedicated to building a community that is not only diverse, and inclusive, but one that actively supports each member within our community and ensuring that they reach their full potential and fullness of what Siena has to offer,” Siena President Charles Siefert said.

Mattingly graduated from Siena with a bachelor of science degree in chemistry back in 1950.