Claflin University ended Homecoming week with its annual Founders’ Day Convocation Sunday in Jonas T. Kennedy and Physical Education Center.

The program recognizes founders William and Lee Claflin and the people and organizations that support the university through monetary donations.

“Today we have come together to celebrate a rich legacy with the hope of a brighter future,” President Henry N. Tisdale said.

Greetings were brought by Claflin University’s Board of Trustees Chair Paul Fant, Mayor of Orangeburg Paul Miller, Claflin University’s International Alumni Association President Liz Zimmerman Keitt and Student Government Association President Sabrina Stewart.

“We thank you leal and loyal sons and daughters of Claflin University for your continued love, support and contribution, for we could not be here if you were not there,” Stewart said.

Tisdale recognized the Student Government Association before presenting couples Johnny and Thelma Murdaugh and Alvin and Gretta Staley with awards for their service to the Orangeburg community.

“Their works and lives have made an indelible impact on the Orangeburg community,” Tisdale said.

The Murdaughs, both 1969 graduates of Claflin, are the owners of the Music Shop, which specializes in the three Rs: retail, rental and repair of musical instruments. The couple also own Murdaugh Construction Co.

“I was overwhelmed and excited over receiving this type of recognition,” Mrs. Murdaugh said.

The Staleys are both art teachers at Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School. Mr. Staley works as an artist-in-residence while Mrs. Staley is a visual arts teacher.

“It’s truly an honor to be a part of Claflin’s legacy,” Mr. Staley said.

Mr. Staley also received recognition from the South Carolina State Fair during the program for the work he submitted in their art exhibit. The piece titled, “Gretta in the Light 3,” won Best in Show. Mr. Staley decided to donate the artwork to Claflin University.

Keynote speaker Hofstra University President Stuart Rabinowitz received an honorary doctorate degree from Tisdale and Vice President for Academic Affairs George Miller.

“It gives me great pleasure to bestow an honorary degree upon you,” Tisdale said.

Rabinowitz thanked the university for having him and spoke of the many similarities between the two universities.

“Hofstra and Claflin subscribe to the same set of core values,” he said.

Rabinowitz noted the improvements that he and Tisdale have made to their respective campuses such as establishing honors colleges, new graduate programs and majors, and building new facilities.

He also feels Hoftra and Claflin are bonded through academic excellence, value and respect for diversity, and a unique liberal arts curriculum.

“We hope to inspire students to have courage to be a leader and visionary,” Rabinowitz said.

T&D Correspondent Ja’Nel Johnson is a mass communications senior at Claflin University. She is editor of The Panther, Claflin’s student newspaper.

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