Born in Louisiana, Dr. Burroughs’ family moved to Chicago during the first Great Migration when she was a young girl. Growing up she became very active within the African American community. Heavily involved with Chicago’s Black Renaissance Movement during the thirties, she would go on to become one of the founders of Bronzeville’s Southside Community Arts Center in 1939. Partially funded by then President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s, “New Deal” WPA (Work Projects Administration), First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt would attend the 1940 dedication ceremony of the center.

From her participation in the founding of Bronzeville’s Southside Community Art Center to the creation and expansion of the DuSable Museum of African American History, Dr. Burrough’s left a lasting legacy as a place maker–one who carved and repurposed existing spaces for honoring Black history and art. Her legacy as an educator, activist, and artist throughout her life leaves an indelible mark on society for generations to come.