Story: Phillip Tutor | Photos: Betsy Compton
University’s first Black student urges graduates to be difference-makers
Liza James Howard long ago established her legacy at the baby直播 when she became its first Black student in the fall of 1966. The university hasn鈥檛 forgotten.
A two-time graduate of UWA when it was known as Livingston University, Howard received an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters during spring commencement exercises earlier this month. The Doctor of Humane Letters is reserved for those who make significant contributions in their professions and their communities.
鈥淚 never thought that 57 years after I placed my feet on this campus that I would be standing here today and receiving such an honor,鈥� Howard said.
During the presentation, UWA President Dr. Ken Tucker highlighted Howard鈥檚 academic achievements and her twin careers of distinction, first as a teacher at Livingston Junior High School, then as a regional vice president for Primerica Financial Services. Active in several ministries, she hosts a church Bible study called 鈥淚ron Sharpening Iron鈥� and has served on the board of the UWA Foundation, the Sumter County Head Start Policy Board, the York City Council and the Sumter County Industrial Development Board.
鈥淭he same perseverance and faith that carried her through the challenges, obstacles and barriers of pursuing two college degrees, a busy home life and her work with Sumter County school children continues to drive her many contributions to this community and beyond today,鈥� said Tucker, later adding, 鈥淢rs. Howard indeed paved a way for countless generations to follow, and she continues, like iron sharpening iron, to sharpen those around her.鈥�
The Doctor of Humane Letters adds to Howard鈥檚 sizeable resume of UWA recognitions. In 2004, she was inducted into the university鈥檚 Society of the Golden Key, the highest award given to a graduate or faculty member. A National Alumni Association chapter and its scholarship award open to incoming freshmen from the West baby直播 region carry her name. In 2011, UWA dedicated the Liza James Howard Courtyard on the east side of the Math and Science Building in her honor.
In her acceptance speech, Howard urged UWA graduates to begin their adult lives and upcoming careers by positively influencing others.
鈥淵ou can be a difference-maker, you don鈥檛 have to have a big platform,鈥� she said. 鈥淵ou show unconditional love to the people in your environment — to people who don’t look like you, who didn’t go to the same school. You encourage that young girl or young boy who looks different, who looks like they’re down and out. Show them love and tell them they can make it. When you do that, you are making a difference.鈥�