To
lead one of the top Black universities in the country, to be the 100% owner
of the Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company of Houghton, Michigan, and to serve as a
lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve simultaneously, one has to possess
wisdom, boldness, and vision. Meet the wise and bold visionary: Dr. William
R. Harvey, Hampton University’s president since 1978.
The native of Brewton, Alabama,
began his academic and military career after graduating from Talledega College
in Alabama. He went on to serve three years on active duty with the United States
Army and earn a doctorate from Harvard University. Prior to assuming his current
academic appointment, Dr. Harvey served as administrative assistant to the president
of Fisk University and as assistant for governmental affairs to the dean of
the Harvard University Graduate School of Education.
"...do what you think
is right, even if
no one is looking."
Dr. Harvey’s leadership in higher
education and business has solidified Hampton University’s stellar position
among the nation’s colleges and universities. During his tenure, student enrollment
has increased from approximately 2,700 students to more than 6,000, 33 new academic
programs have been created, 11 new buildings have been erected, and existing
facilities have undergone $35 million worth of renovations.
A strong advocate of self-sufficiency
and empowerment for African-Americans, Dr. Harvey initiated the recently-completed
Hampton Harbor Project, a residential and commercial development consisting
of 246 two-bedroom apartments and 60,000 square feet of commercial rental space.
After-tax profits from the Hampton Harbor Project will be primarily used for
student scholarships.
The father of three’s commitment
to his community is just as strong as his dedication to Hampton University.
In 1992, Dr. Harvey initiated the Job Education Training (JET) Corps, a program
modeled after the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps. He chaired the Virginia
Peninsula United Way Campaign in 1994 and helped to raise a record-setting $6.6
million. Also, he serves as a board member of First Union National Bank of Virginia,
Newport News Shipbuilding, Inc., and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
To America’s youth, he says “Life
is full of choices. In making those choices, always do what you think is right,
even if no one is looking.”
