Winter 2018


Agreement for WSSU Bachelor’s Graduate Path to Doctorate


entering the


Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (OT) program through a


assurance agreement.


The


a g r e e m e n t s, approved by WSSU’s School of Health Sciences December


in 2015,


were the first- of-its-kind for a Historically Black


WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – A


recent Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) graduate is on her way to earning her doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree thanks to a new program that aims to increase the diversity of two of WSSU’s signature graduate programs.


Alexis McCrea, who earned


her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science in May, began taking courses in WSSU’s DPT program in January. She became the first to take advantage of an Early Assurance Program (EAP) that guarantees admission into the DPT and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy programs for WSSU graduates who meet specific admissions requirements.


“I am grateful to have the


opportunity to start my doctoral program a year early,” said McCrea, of Concord. “Having the opportunity to begin this program and continue my education at WSSU is both an honor and a privilege.


This fall marked another milestone with five WSSU May graduates


and University (HBCU). “These deserving WSSU


students are the first of many who will benefit from this unique Early Assurance Program,” said Dr. Peggy Valentine,


dean Health Sciences. “The School of Health Sciences


is committed to helping create a diverse workforce. Through EAP, we are not only meeting the tremendous healthcare workforce needs in North Carolina, but also giving WSSU’s best students the


opportunity


applications for only 30 seats. OT received


Last year, DPT received 600 about


In 2016, graduates of 400 applications


for 28 seats. The programs also are receiving increasing positive national recognition.


both programs received a 100 percent pass rate on their licensure exams.


McCrea, a member of the Powerhouse of Red and White as an undergraduate, plans to graduate in 2019.


of the School of College


After nearly 40 years of taking the Hampton University name around the nation, Vice


President


of Development Laron J. Clark, Jr. left this world Monday, Dec. 11. He celebrated his 80th birthday five days earlier.“I have lost a trusted advisor and a dear, valued friend,” said Hampton University President, Dr. William R. Harvey. I have literally


“He and traveled the nation


fundraising for Hampton. Others will take on his responsibilities, but no one can ever completely replace what he has meant to our Home By The Sea and to me.”


to


earn a head start on their graduate education.”


Hamptonians, old and new alike,


knew him as a kind, good-hearted, compassionate man who never met a stranger. Interim Vice President of Development


Evelyn


his strongest trait and


Graham said.


A native of Atlanta, Clark joined Hampton University in 1975 as Director of Development. His role then until now has been to find benefactors for HU, a role at which both he and


Graham,


who met and began working under his tutelage


encouraging person,”


in 2005, remembers – his positive


attitude.“He was a very positive, uplifting


similar


The HBCU Advocate


Laron Clark Leaves Legacy of Love, Leadership


Dr. Harvey succeeded by any measure. Under Dr. Harvey’s leadership, Clark helped grow Hampton University’s endowment from $29 million to more than $260 million.


alma


In 1998, Clark returned to his mater to be Vice


of Institutional President Advancement at


Morehouse College (’61), and his reputation


positive attitude went with him.“He was a pleasure to work with,” said Morehouse College Alumni Engagement


Director for encouragement and of and Giving,


Henry Goodgame. “He was always a good listener and a visionary of how things could be.”Dr. Harvey wooed him back to Hampton University, this


time as Vice President of


Development, in 2001. One of those glad to see him return was Hampton University Chancellor and Provost Dr. Joann W. Haysbert, who first worked with him at Hampton University in 1980.


“He has always been a welcoming


figure, a tower of strength, a wealth of knowledge, energy, expertise with a strong commitment to Hampton University and its president, Dr. William R. Harvey,” Haysbert said. “Over the years, I have found him to be a consummate professional and friend. He could be described objectively by anyone as a statesman and a gentleman’s gentleman.”Clark enjoyed


driving “He loved cars, to grow,” said Minetta especially


BMWs, and he enjoyed growing, whether it was plants or people.


see things Highsmith,


Administrative Assistant to Clark for 12 years, “whether it was growing funds to support development scholarships


and the growth and


of students through programs or just


LARON CLARK PAGE 11


3


Opening Reception- Pathways to Education: 1868-2018 Friday, January 26, 2018 | Hampton University Museum


This exhibit will explore through objects and photographs the 150 year history of Hampton University, beginning with its founding through present times. The history of the Hampton University Museum founded in 1868, will also be showcased. A public platform featuring two individuals with unique connections to Hampton University will share personal and family insights on the lives of two extraordinary men and their roles at Hampton University on opening night of the exhibit. The Conversations will be free and open to the public, and offer a cordial atmosphere allowing the audience to engage with featured guests and ask questions.


With musical performance by Radiance String Ensemble 5:30pm – 7:00pm


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