by Alexandrea Irby, LEAP administrative coordinator

LEAP grads receive a spiritual charge from Chaplain Kimberly Pearson at the LEAP reception on May 2.

On May 2, 24 graduates of the Leadership Education for the Adult Professional (LEAP) program gathered at the LEAP office to "connect" and "complete." Students were able to complete their clearance form in a "one-stop shop" format with Student Accounts Director Paula Wilson, Financial Aid Director Lynda Bartholomew, and SALT representative Alton Conwell.

Students were recognized for their achievements during a brief program segment of the reception. With family, friends, and LEAP faculty present; students walked across the "stage" to shake hands with the Adult and Continuing Education Executive Director, and Dean of the Business and Information Systems and Adult and Continuing Education Department, Hyacinth Burton. 

Each student received the 2013-2014 yearbook, a t-shirt, a LEAP padfolio and pen, and a card signed by each staff member.

Awards were given to 12 students who were recognized for outstanding academic excellence. Cheryl Sullivan was recognized as LEAP Teacher of the Year, and Pearlie Richardson for Academic Fortitude. Cheri Wilson, director of development and former LEAP director congratulated the graduates and shared information on giving back to Oakwood University, especially the "Blue and Gold challenge." Chaplain Kimberly Pearson ended the program with a prayer of consecration for the graduates. 

Dr. Pollard, Mrs. Clara White, and Dr.  Jeffrey White

Oakwood University is pleased to announce a recent gift to the Building on the Past, Claiming the Future Campaign. This campaign has been set up to assist in the funding of three capital projects on the Oakwood University campus, Carter Hall, Ford Hall and the new Peters Media Center. 

Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey and Clara White have made a generous donation to the campaign in the amount of $95,000 to name three different rooms in the Peters Media Center. They have also chosen to support the Biology Department with a gift of $7,300, as the department strives to enhance the offerings to current and incoming students.

"God has seen fit to inspire so many individuals to contribute to Oakwood University and this campaign in general," said Kisha Norris, executive director of Advancement and Development. "We know that the vision set for Oakwood is inspired by God and we are proud to see so many answer to call to join us on this mission."

Oakwood University administration, faculty, staff and students would like to extend a big thank you to Dr. and Mrs. White for their generous gift to further the mission of the University.

If you or someone you know would like to make a gift to the Building on the Past, Claiming the Future campaign, please feel free to contact the Office of Advancement and Development at (256) 726-7201 or developmentoffice@oakwood.edu. 

Oakwood continues to build the quality of personnel that will serve our students and constituents in the best possible way. You can help us by recommending names of potential candidates to fill the following positions at the University: