By Maggie Blackwell
mblackwell@salisburypost.com
Livingstone College gave Gov. Bev Perdue an honorary doctor of laws degree Thursday at the school’s 130th anniversary celebration.
The Founder’s Day ceremony included a virtual who’s who from the AME Zion Church and leaders from the community, who filled Varick Auditorium to capacity.
The theme of the day was remembering the past and anticipating the future, echoed by all the speakers at the two-hour event.
Dr. Jimmy Jenkins, 12th president of the college, recalled the legacy and challenge of Dr. Joseph Charles Price, who founded the school 130 years ago.
Bishop George Washington Carver Walker Sr., chairman of the board of trustees, recalled the amazing catch in the Super Bowl by Santonio Holmes, saying, “Anything’s possible. If your mind can conceive it, you can achieve it.”
He also recognized Charles Sherrill, grandson of the school’s founder.
Several speakers referred to Dr. Price’s remark, “I do not care how dark the night; I believe in the coming of the morning.”
Gov. Perdue, who has a doctorate in education administration, referred to the “pure audacity” of Price to conceive and pursue the development of Livingstone.
He founded the college in 1879, at a time when African-Americans had limited educational opportunities. Perdue noted that even today, while colleges are struggling nationwide and students are scrambling for financial support, Livingstone enjoys increased enrollment.
She gave much credit for the college’s success to the “magic” and leadership of Dr. Jenkins, who focused instruction on globalization and holistic education, which includes emphasis on students’ learning to manage finances, take care of their bodies, honor their families and give back to the community.
She cited W. E. B. DuBois, who called Livingstone the “Harvard of the South,” challenging students to work hard so that Harvard could be called the “Livingstone of the North.”
Perdue mentioned the first African-American neurosurgeon and president of the National Association of Educators. She noted five college presidents have graduated from Livingstone.
She challenged the class of 2009 to “be audacious with faith, hard work and an education,” just as Price did.
Bishop George E. Battle, vice chairman of trustees, praised Perdue as the first woman governor of North Carolina, citing her career of working to improve education in the state.
Dr. Bertha Escoffery, vice president for academic affairs, assisted in presenting the honorary degree to Perdue. State Rep. William Wainwright, who was instrumental in the invitation for Perdue to attend, also assisted.
The ceremony included a color guard from West Rowan High School. The Livingstone choir sang several selections.
After the events in the auditorium, a wreath was placed in honor of Dr. Price at his mausoleum.