Approximately 600 people attended a scholarship/retirement gala held March 19 at the Hilton Houston Post Oak in honor of retired professor Dr. Alfred Poindexter Jr. The event’s proceeds will be placed in the Alfred Poindexter Scholarship Fund for students in the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences for internships and other activities.
“Dr. Poindexter is one of a kind, a man who treats everyone as a friend first and can always brighten up your day with his unique sense of humor,” said Dr. Linda Williams-Willis, interim dean of the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences. “We are certainly pleased to honor Dr. Poindexter and are elated that a scholarship fund has been established in his name for the students in the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences.”
Poindexter retired from the university in August of 2004 after 59 years of service.
“The number of people who came out to celebrate Dr. Poindexter’s achievements is a testimony on how he has impacted the students, faculty, staff, and the Prairie View A&M University community,” said Prairie View A&M University President Dr. George C. Wright. “He is indeed a living legend whom I’ve come to respect highly during my 18 month tenure as president.”
Those who paid tribute to Poindexter included three former Prairie View A&M University presidents: Dr. Alvin I. Thomas, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Julius W. Becton Jr., and Dr. Charles A. Hines. Poindexter’s close associate, Lindsey Weatherspoon of the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences also lauded Poindexter, as did Dr. E. Joahanne Thomas-Smith, provost and senior vice president for academic and student affairs.
Poindexter’s family members at the gala included his wife of 63 years, Rachael Poindexter, their five children, and a host of other relatives.
In remarks, Poindexter said, ” I love all of you and appreciate all you have done for me.