Larry Love University Presents
Mother Lessie
Benningfield Randle
111 Years of Faith, Courage & Living Legacy
Chicago Visit — October 9–11, 2026
For media inquiries: [email protected] | (844) GO-TO-LLU
111
Age
Oct 9–11
Dates
Chicago & Cicero, IL
Location
Larry Love University
Sponsor
MUSKOGEE, OKLA. — Larry Love University (LLU), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) educational organization headquartered in Muskogee, Oklahoma, proudly announces that Mother Lessie Benningfield Randle, the 111-year-old last living survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, is scheduled to visit the Barack Obama Presidential Center in Chicago in October 2026.
Mother Randle is expected to arrive in Chicago on Friday, October 9, 2026, for a series of events celebrating her extraordinary life and enduring legacy. Her visit represents a rare opportunity to honor a living witness to one of the darkest chapters in American history — inspiring future generations through resilience, education, hope, and reconciliation.
As part of her visit, Mother Randle will receive the Mighty Men & Women of God Humanitarian Award on Sunday, October 11, 2026, in Cicero, Illinois. The ceremony will be attended by multiple celebrity guests and dignitaries, including former World Boxing Champion "Lightning" Lonnie Smith and Ace Watkins of the acclaimed R&B group Public Announcement.
Larry Love University is proud to sponsor this historic journey. Mother Randle holds the distinction of being the oldest living alumni member of Larry Love University.
Event Details
October 2026
Friday, October 9, 2026
Chicago Area
Arrival in Chicago, Illinois
Weekend, Oct. 9–11
Chicago, Illinois
Celebration events honoring Mother Randle's extraordinary life and enduring legacy
Sunday, October 11, 2026
Cicero, Illinois
The Mighty Men & Women of God Humanitarian Award Ceremony — Featuring: Former World Boxing Champion "Lightning" Lonnie Smith; Ace Watkins of Public Announcement; and additional celebrity guests & dignitaries
Why This Story Matters
A once-in-a-generation moment — a living bridge between the past, present, and future of American history.
Living History
Mother Randle is the sole surviving eyewitness to the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre — a living link to one of America's darkest chapters.
Star-Studded Recognition
The October 11 ceremony features former World Boxing Champion "Lightning" Lonnie Smith, Ace Watkins of Public Announcement, and additional celebrities and dignitaries.
Intergenerational Impact
Her presence at the Barack Obama Presidential Center bridges history and the promise of a more equitable future.
Education as Liberation
As an LLU alumna, her story embodies lifelong learning — proof that education is not bound by age or adversity.
National Media Moment
A rare opportunity for journalists, documentary producers, and digital media creators to capture a living legend's story.
Support the Mission
Honor Her Journey &
Invest in Her Legacy
Mother Randle is 111 years old — the last living survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Your donation helps cover security and medical staff to ensure she travels safely and comfortably to the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago.
Give her flowers while she is alive, not when she is dead.
$200
VIP Ticket
Priority entry + reserved seating
Free
General Admission
Complimentary food & beverages
Any Amount
Add a Donation
100% goes to the mission
Media Opportunities
Available to approved journalists, producers, and digital media creators
Interview Access
One-on-one interviews with Mother Randle (subject to health/scheduling), Dr. Larry Love, and event organizers.
Photo/Video Credentials
Press credentials for approved media at the October 2026 events in Chicago and Cicero, Illinois.
Celebrity & Dignitary Coverage
Media access surrounding confirmed guests: "Lightning" Lonnie Smith, Ace Watkins of Public Announcement, and additional celebrity attendees.
Exclusive Features & Broadcast
Advance background materials for documentary/long-form producers. Ready-made soundbites and b-roll available on request.
Podcast / Digital Media
Dr. Larry Love available for podcast appearances and digital panel discussions surrounding the visit.
Download Official Documents
Both documents are free to download and share with your audience, editorial team, or colleagues.
Media Kit
Full media kit including event details, bios, story angles, and contact information for journalists and producers.
Download Media Kit (PDF)Press Release
Official press release announcing Mother Randle's historic Chicago visit, formatted for immediate publication.
Download Press Release (PDF)Media Contact
Dr. Larry Love
Founder, Larry Love University
Direct: (708) 536-8836
Office: (844) 468-6558 (GO-TO-LLU)
Email: [email protected]
1320 N. Mill Street, Ste 116, Muskogee, OK 74401
Dr. Debra Harris
Registrar, Larry Love University
Email: [email protected]
For interview scheduling, press credentials, and media inquiries, contact us directly.