SAINT PAUL’S COLLEGE WELL REPRESENTED AT NATIONAL CONFERENCE
Saint Paul’s College (SPC) CEO and Interim President, Eddie N. Moore, Jr. and Mr. Saint Paul’s College, Kedrick Williams carried the flag for SPC at the United Negro College Fund’s national conference this month in Orlando, Florida.
Williams, a senior and business administration major from Winston-Salem, NC, received a $2,000 scholarship honoring academic achievement by students who are active in UNCF programs on campus. The merit award is named in memory of William “Bill” McGill, who was an avid supporter and volunteer for the Fund for many years.
“I’m so proud that Kedrick and Saint Paul’s enjoyed this moment in the spotlight at a prestigious national conference,” said Moore. “This young man exudes the qualities of an outstanding student leader who maintains high academic achievement and I was honored to accompany him to the conference.”
“I’m very thankful to the United Negro College Fund for choosing me to receive such a distinguished award and for helping fund my education,” said Williams. “And I was excited to be able to meet individuals at the conference who are making a difference in America.”
Williams says he was honored to speak with Cynthia M. A. Butler-McIntyre, the 24th National President of Delta Sigma Theta, the national sorority acclaimed for its commitment to community service. He also met with Terry W. Prather, President of SeaWorld, Orlando. Prather was the first African-American general manager of a major theme park, Jazzland Theme Park in New Orleans.
But Williams admits he was downright star-struck by Soledad O’Brien, the anchor of CNN’s morning show Starting Point. “The funny thing is, she actually wanted to meet me,” chuckled Williams. “Mrs. O’Brien encouraged me to stick with whatever goals and dreams that I have, because I can accomplish anything I put my mind and heart to.”
“Overall my experience in Orlando can be summed up in one word PHENOMENAL!” exclaimed Williams. “I never knew how much of an educational opportunity the United Negro College Fund afforded students like me. I really wish I could have stayed in Orlando longer because I learned so much not only about the UNCF, but about myself,” says Williams.
After graduation, Williams will begin a paid internship for Brand Jordan in Portland, Oregon, hoping it will lead to a marketing management position within the company and be a stepping-stone for his lifelong goal of owning his own business and coaching a basketball team.
CNN Reporter, Soledad O'Brien poses with Mr. Saint Paul's College, Kedrick Williams.