Retired CBC Vice President Paul Pope (left) is honored as a “Trustee Emeritus” by NC Central at the University’s 2018 Commencement on Saturday, May 12, 2018. NCCU Chancellor Dr. Johnson O. Akinleye, presents the award.

May is the month in which area colleges and universities conferred those coveted degrees that represent years of committed studies. On the occasion of the 131st commencement at North Carolina Central University one special commitment was recognized. Retired CBC Vice President Paul Pope, Jr. was awarded a special designation from his beloved alma mater.

A proud “NCCU Eagle” Pope has always sought to give back since his days on the track team of legendary Olympic coach, Dr. Leroy Walker.

Pope was recently term-limited after serving eight years on the board of trustee. The board, unanimously voted to bestow honorary life membership and the title of “Trustee Emeritus”. They wanted to publicly acknowledge the years of service he rendered to the board and North Carolina Central University.

Thanks to CBC retiree Clarence Williams for this capcom story & for these capcom photos.