STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Glasgow officials plan to dedicate the Luska J. Twyman Administration Building later this month, honoring the life and legacy of the city’s former mayor and longtime educator.
The ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. at 126 East Public Square in downtown Glasgow. The event is free and open to the public, and a reception will follow the formal program.
The building is being named for former Mayor Luska J. Twyman, who made history in 1968 when he was elected mayor of Glasgow, becoming the first African American mayor in Kentucky.
Twyman went on to serve the city until 1986, leading Glasgow for nearly two decades.
Before and during his time in office, Twyman built his career in education, serving as principal of Ralph Bunche School and later as assistant principal of Glasgow High School, according to a press release from the city. He played a key role in helping guide the local school district through integration. Twyman also served his country and state in several other capacities.
He was a World War II veteran, an appointee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights and chairman of the Kentucky State University Board of Regents, according to the city.
Glasgow Mayor Henry Royse said the dedication is meant to recognize the depth of Twyman’s service to the community.
“Luska Twyman spent his life in service to this community, first in the classroom and then at the head of this city government,” Royse said in a statement.
He added that naming the building for Twyman is a way to ensure his contributions are not forgotten and to give residents a chance to celebrate that legacy together.
Kentucky State University President Dr. Koffi Akakpo, the 19th president of Twyman’s alma mater, will serve as the ceremony’s special guest speaker.
The City of Glasgow is inviting Twyman’s family, friends, former colleagues and the broader community to attend the dedication and take part in celebrating what officials describe as a milestone for the city.
Key Facts
• City of Glasgow to dedicate Luska J. Twyman Administration Building on Sunday, July 26, 2026
• Ceremony runs from 2 to 4 p.m. at 126 East Public Square in downtown Glasgow
• Event honors former Mayor Luska J. Twyman, Kentucky’s first African American mayor
• Twyman served as Glasgow’s mayor from 1968 until 1986, officials say
• He was a longtime educator, World War II veteran and civic leader
• Kentucky State University President Dr. Koffi Akakpo will be the special guest speaker
• The dedication ceremony is free and open to the public, with a reception to follow
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