NSU To Honor Three At President’s Inaugural Gala

NORFOLK

     A Gala on Saturday, March 17, culminating a week of inaugural activities for Dr. Tony Atwater, fifth president of NSU, will honor three citizens for their contributions in leadership, community service and philanthropy.  The Outstanding Achievement Awards will be presented at the gala which will be held at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott beginning at 7 p.m. 

     The honorees were selected in three categories: leadership, community service and philanthropy. 

     Dr. William E. Ward, Leadership. Dr. Ward, who served the city of Chesapeake for 26 years and as mayor for approximately half that time, continues to provide leadership in the community. He has served in numerous civic, fraternal and regional capacities and is currently the University’s legislative liaison with the Virginia General Assembly.  Ward  is a retired university professor and served as Dean of the NSU History Department.

     Edith G. White, Community Service. Ms. White, president and chief executive officer of the Urban League of South Hampton Roads, has worked to initiate new community service programs to enhance educational opportunities, to provide technical assistance for business development and to create wealth through homeownership. 

     Joshua P. Darden Jr., Philanthropy. Mr. Darden is a philanthropist, civic activist and retired business leader. He is a Tidewater Scholarship Foundation (ACCESS) director and co-founder, CIVIC Leadership Institute board member and co-founder, and Virginia Business Higher Education Council member. Mr. Darden is immediate past board chairman of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation. His past leadership service includes education, civic and business roles.

     In addition to the awards presentation, the gala will include a silent auction that features a host of wonderful items, a seated dinner, musical entertainment and dancing. Gala tickets are $150 and will help raise money for scholarships and programs. For more information, contact the Office of University Advancement at (757) 823-8323.