Dr. John T. Washington, one of the first African Americans to hold a faculty position at the University of Central Florida, was an Associate professor of Sociology during the 1970's. At that time, there were few programs and services to assist students, particularly ethnic and minority students, in making a successful transition to the University. Most notably, his pioneering efforts to sensitize individuals and organizations to the needs and aspirations of African Americans were instrumental in African American Student Union, and the Office of Minority Student their leadership styles. His interest in leadership and community

Dr. Washington was also a minister whose interest, sincerity, and altruism had a profound impact on those with whom he had contact. His efforts to improve the plight of African Americans throughout Central Florida and his commitment and dedication to Meals on Wheels and other volunteer programs earned him the WESH Channel 6 Jefferson Award for outstanding Community service.

Following his untimely death in 1983, the UCF Student Services Building was named in his honor. To keep his commitment to scholarship and community service alive, the University established a tradition of honoring adult and youth community individuals with the John T. Washington Community Service Awards. A scholarship fund was also established in his name to assist worthy students in completing their education.