Oji Samuel Blackston is a proud retired educator, director, writer, U.S. Marine veteran, and devoted family man. Though Oji was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and grew up in Bel Air, he was always eager to learn and help others. His brave service in the Vietnam War began after he graduated from Hereford High School in Parkton, MD. The Writer Oji Blackston later went to San Francisco State University and got a master’s degree. Oji has a background in both teaching and the arts. For many years, he taught acting and TV production all over California, inspiring students. He is a storyteller and co-founder of FAD Productions. Through movies like the award-winning Juneteenth celebration, he has fought for cultural history.
A Journey of Service and Learning
Oji Samuel Blackston’s journey started in Baltimore and went through Bel Air, MD. The Writer Oji Blackston went to Central Consolidated School and Hereford High School and graduated. During the Vietnam War, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps and learned discipline and a strong sense of duty. This made his values even stronger. After leaving the military, Oji worked at the downtown Baltimore post office before going to school to further his education. His first school was RETS. After that, he went to California and got his master’s degree at San Francisco State University. Combining service and scholarship in this way sets the stage for a great career in teaching, the arts, and helping people in need.
A Career in Education and the Arts
The Writer Oji Blackston became a respected teacher and creative worker because he loved telling stories and teaching. Together with Warren, he started FAD Productions and made the Juneteenth program that won first place at the Bay Area Cable Excellence Awards. During his time in school, he taught theater at Contra Costa Community College and TV production at Oakland’s Laney College. Then Oji became a member of the teacher’s union and worked as a first-grade teacher at Nystrom Elementary. When he retired in 2018, he left behind a legacy of creativity, motivation, and guidance for many students.
Ending Note
Even though Oji is retired now, he still loves to find and share stories that honor tradition and strength. The Writer Oji Blackston has started a new project to bring attention to the amazing story of Queen Khalifa. Their study goes deep into stories from history that are often overlooked. This gives readers a chance to connect with powerful lessons from the past. Oji thinks that stories can teach and empower people of all kinds. This is his most recent work, which is an inspiring journey through heritage, strength, and identity that asks us all to learn about and enjoy Queen Khalifa’s legacy.