Fifty years ago to the day, racism and riots engulfed The University of Mississippi campus. Students, faculty and visitors came together Sunday night to commemorate the remarkable accomplishment by James Meredith in 1962.
Were it not for this one act:
- I would not have had the prestigious opportunity to have attended the University of Mississippi.
- I would not have developed into a strong leader.
- I would not know what love and true friendship is all about.
- I would not have the vast amount of respect that I have from my peers.
- I would not know the confidence in my abilities and talents.
- I would not be a member of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc.
- I would not be me.
To this day, my time at the University of Mississippi changed me for the better. I would not trade the 7 years for anything in the world. 6 of those were spent in the academia world and 1 was spent as a Faculty/Staff member. Were it not for James Meredith, this would not be possible. I never take my steps in life for granted because there was someone who always allowed me to do so.
God for the chance to breathe and live.
My mom for my inspiration.
My grandparents for my foundation.
Iota Phi Theta for the leadership and vision
and James Meredith….for my college education, career, opportunity to be a campus leader, a Faculty/Staff member, and the opportunity to shout “Hotty Toddy!”
I give thanks to you, sir, for without this door, the man I am would not exist.
” The University gives a diploma and regretfully terminates tenure, but one never graduates from Ole Miss”
