The Voorhees College Board of Trustees recently held a surprise virtual celebration to honor Dr. W. Franklin Evans, the institution’s ninth president and CEO, at the historic Booker T. Washington Building, where the president’s office is housed.
The Board of Trustees facilitated several accolades, including the conferring the doctorate of humane letters, honoris causa, and induction into the Voorhees College Hall of Fame.
Additionally, resolutions were presented on the behalf of the following: The Voorhees College National Alumni Association, South Carolina General Assembly Resolution (Senate), South Carolina General Assembly Resolution (House), the City of Denmark, the Delta Zeta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and the South Carolina chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Additionally, the United Negro College Fund will present a resolution for service at the annual Members’ Meeting.
Under Evans’ visionary leadership, Voorhees benefitted from increased alumni, private donor sponsored giving and external grant awards. The institution has launched its first fully online degree programs, established the Veterans Resource Center, the Voorhees College Historical Museum, unveiled a new surface at its track and field complex, and increased capital improvements.
Evans, who will assume the leadership as the 37th president of West Liberty University, will be the first black president in its 183-year history.
David G. Miller, chairman of the Board of Trustees, said the board has genuinely appreciated Dr. Evans’ service and dedication as a visionary leader for Voorhees College,” Miller said. “While we are going to miss his leadership and presence, we want to wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”
Dr. Traci Young Cooper, vice chairman of the Board of Trustees, added that Evans has been a champion, advocate, spokesman, and ambassador for Voorhees College. “I commend him for the fortitude, grace, integrity, and diligence he has offered as the College pivots to our new leadership chapter.” www.voorhees.edu
Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, the interim president, said he offers his sincere congratulations and blessings for continued success to Dr. Evans. “God has enlarged his territory as he begins a new chapter of his career trajectory,” Hopkins said. “President Evans has been an extraordinary leader for Voorhees and a remarkable mentor to me.”
The Board of Trustees and the college community bid Evans farewell and wish him well on his continued success.
For more information, contact the Office of Communications, at 803-780-1191 or at communications@voorhees.edu.
