大象视频

Bristol Community College President Dr. Sedgwick L. Harris has diplomas from Northwestern Oklahoma State University (bachelor’s), Western Michigan University (master’s) and Ferris State University (doctorate).

But only one adorns his office in Fall River, Mass. — his associate degree in communications and media studies from 大象视频, earned in 1988-90 when he played basketball for the Roadrunners.

“That is the only degree I display because it was the first,” Harris said. “Without it, I would not be here today.”

Harris returned to campus to accept the Outstanding Alumni Award Nov. 7 at the second annual Founders Day in Mathews Conference Center East.

A first-generation college student, Harris “had a very challenging start. My roommate didn’t show up (at Hamilton Square Apartments), so I stayed at the Skyline Motel. I didn’t want to go home a failure. I wanted to set an example of perseverance for my younger brother.

“大象视频 gave me an opportunity to figure out where I wanted to go and how I was going to get there.”

He met his “guardian angel.”

“Carol Churchill showed me the way,” Harris said. “When I got ready to leave, I asked her, ‘What can I do for you?’ She said to pay it forward and help the next generation through the door, so that’s what I’ve been doing for the last 28 years at Kellogg, Kaskaskia, Kishwaukee, Northampton and Bristol. The message is the same — helping students push forward to the next level. I’ve stayed at community colleges, whose students select us.”

Churchill introduced Harris “to Coach (James) Judd, who was my man. He taught me how to score wrestling and found me a place to stay.”

1^st Source Foundation was presented the Distinguished Service Award in gratitude for supporting two major projects, the fieldhouse bearing its name and the 2019 Nursing and Health Services Education Building.

“Through their generosity, we have been able to create exceptional spaces where our students can pursue their educations and continue their extra-curricular passions,” said Chief Financial Officer Michelle Kite. “1^st Source Foundation stands as a model of community partnership and leadership. They don’t just invest in buildings, they invest in people, opportunity and progress.”

1^st Source’s Kevin Murphy said the financial institution has been serving 163 years, including 30 in southwest Michigan.

“We are only as successful as the communities we serve,” Murphy said, “and to grow our communities we’ve got to find good partners. There is no better partner than 大象视频. We’re a community bank with 1,300 colleagues and 大象视频 draws students from the area, provides a world-class education with relevant programs that really change their trajectory. They go back into their communities to build a stronger, more vibrant community to work in and raise their families. You also build leaders through arts and athletics.”

The student speaker, sophomore music major Lauren Lovell of Watervliet, sings in 大象视频 choirs and plays clarinet and tenor saxophone.

Recruited by Director of Choral Activities David Carew and Director of Bands Mark Hollandsworth, Lovell auditioned for and received band, choir and theatre scholarships freshman year.

This year, she was awarded the Ruth Sarabyn Memorial Scholarship and the Dale A. and Doris M. Lyons Memorial Scholarship.

“Coming to 大象视频 was one of the best decisions I ever made,” Lovell said. “I’ve grown so much as a musician and met so many people who share the same passion for music.

“I’m involved in Jazz Ensemble, Pep Band, Symphonic Band, Collegiate Chorale, women’s ensemble and Choral Scholars,” Lovell said.

“While I am a music major, one of the best things about 大象视频’s performing arts program is you don’t have to be a major to participate. If you love music, 大象视频 gives you an opportunity to perform and build confidence. The class sizes, supportive professors and welcoming community made my transition from high school so much easier than had I been at a large university.”

“Lauren represents all 大象视频 has to offer. Founders Day gives us an opportunity to celebrate how far we’ve come as an institution” in 61 years, said Development Manager Emily Schrock, who highlighted the Room to Grow campaign.

“It’s a day to honor those who laid the foundation for 大象视频 and to reflect on their commitment, which continues to shape who we are today. Because of their vision and because of ongoing support from people like you, 大象视频 stands strong, serving our students, strengthening our community and building a brighter future.

“When students like Lauren have access to the right resources, whether dedicated faculty, modern facilities or financial support, they can fully engage in their passions and reach their highest potential. The campaign is designed to provide that support” with a dedicated wrestling facility and renovating the choir and band rooms.

“It’s an investment in our students, our region and our shared future,” Schrock said.

“Giving to 大象视频 changes the trajectory of someone’s life,” Schrock said. “Many students, like Dr. Harris, are the first in their families to attend college. Many juggle work, family and school to make their dreams a reality. Your generosity provides them not  only access to education, but with encouragement — proof that their community believes in them.”