Elizabeth City State University - Viking Yearbook (Elizabeth City, NC)

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Dr Kermit F- Whito Chairnun Board of Trustees

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FACING TOMORROW Dear Members of the Class of 1981: You have achieved a significant milestone. Graduating from college is always a memora- ble experience. As we contemplate what you must feel now, we are drawn also to reflect upon an event which occurred more that a decade ago, in 1968. In m y first formal address to the faculty, students and staff of Elizabeth City State Col- lege (now University) on September 22, 1968, I attempted to synthesize the history and perspective of this institution and add, unobstrusively, some new dimensions that ap- peared to me as things to come in higher education. Also, I was mindful of the deep pas- sion of students of that day and reminded my audience that if one seeks destruction, one gets destruction whether he chooses to work within or outside his structured society. My advice was (and remains) to seek construction. During the years that have passed since that address was made, we have been encour- aged by a national acceptance of these basic principles by which we have been, in part, guided. We have found no lasting reason to regret the basic approach we took. We have had no lasting inclination to change basic directions, although modification of plans is a constant necessity in higher education and in society, and in life generally. The philosophy is not complicated. There is a pressing need for quality higher educa- tion. Change is inevitable and, when possible, should be planned. People should be treat- ed with respect and courtesy, and decisions should be made on the bases of fact and objec- tivity. All people have the right to their own individuality, but all should function together for the good of the group of which they are a part, in meeting agreed-upon group objectives. Elizabeth City State University has been extremely responsive to principles stated in the preceding paragraphs. The institution has revised its philosophy and objectives. We have sought to establish a foundation for coordinated services individually by students, fullest utilization of talents, training and experience by faculty, and mutual respect and account- ability for all. It shall be our purpose to maintain this course until our aims and objectives are realized and our mission is substantially accomplished at Elizabeth City State University. It shall be our purpose to keep at the business of making this institution come into its full fruition as the lodestar of this section of this State. We look forward to the full support of each one of you as dedicated alumni in helping to make this happen. Finally, Mrs. Thorpe and I wish for each of you boundless success, the best of health, great happiness and unwavering faith in the Almighty who guards all of us, as you travel from this place into your respective futures — while carrying with you vivid memories of, and unflagging loyalty to Elizabeth City State University. Most cordially yours. Marion D. Thorpe Chancellor

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DEDICATION In this the 90th year of Elizabeth City State University the Viking Staff is proud to dedicate this fruit of its labor — our Yearbook — to a person of great character, unwavering dedication and charismatic leadership, who desting chose to lead us into a significant 10th decade of our institution ' s existence: — namely the distinguished Chairman of our Board of Trustees and the first Chairman to realize a Graduate and Continuing Education Center. Kermit Earle White Doctor of Dental Surgery Citizen Exemplar Humanitarian