Prairie View A&M University held an official ring ceremony, on Wednesday Nov. 10 in the MSC ballroom in honor of the late Willie A. Tempton, interim president (02-03), PVAMU class of `61. Tempton passed away on Nov. 7, in Houston, Texas. He was appointed by the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents to be acting president of Prairie View A&M University on May 20, 2002, and interim president on June 6, 2002. He held the position of interim president until August 15, 2003. The ceremony began with Mr. Prairie View 2004-2005, David Harris, delivering the invocation followed by Miss Prairie View, Christie Cummings, giving a welcome. The University Choir performed a beautiful rendition of “Lift Every Voice,” the black national anthem. Later in the program the Choir performed “Total Praise” which was known to be one of Tempton’s favorite songs. The Tempton family was introduced by Dr. Willie Trotty, vice president of research and development.
In attendance representing the family were Tempton’s wife, Mary, son Willie Tempton Jr., and daughters Michelle Tempton and Sharon Tempton LaCour.
President George Wright stated that “It [the ceremony] was very moving. It reminds us of the many wonderful and important things that Mr. Tempton was involved in here at the university. I’m very proud to have been a part of it, though others were responsible for putting the program together. I’m just happy to participate in a very great occasion.”
The unveiling of the rings was performed by Dr. E.J Thomas-Smith, provost and senior vice president of academic and student affairs, Johnny Younger, vice president of PVAMU National Alumni Association, Dr. Evelyn Thornton, president of the faculty senate and Nigel Redmond, president of the student government association.
At the closing of the ceremony, which was attended by a large number of students, faculty , and alumni, everyone joined together, some holding hands, to sing the Prairie View alma mater, led by the University Choir. “It was a momentous occasion,” said senior political science major Courtney Smith.
Soon after the ceremony attendees where treated to a small reception, held in the back of the ballroom. It gave students, faculty, staff and alumni a chance to mingle and reminisce and look forward to PV’s future. Seniors interested in obtaining a ring for their graduation can contact Jostens for further information. The official ring committee consisted of Tim Albert, Belinda Lewis, Jay Clay, Mr. Cleophus Sharp and Susan Topper.
Remember Prairie View produces productive people, those who don’t go unnoticed.