Jerry and Shirley Boone: - Ferrum College

Dr. Boone’s memories:
Of Ferrum Alumni:
There are three sets of Ferrum alumni, the Training School, the Junior
College and the baccalaureate institution. Each group has its own
unique attachments to the College, but there is a common thread. All
have been deeply touched by Ferrum faculty and staff members. Their
lives changed while they were here and their stories, whether funny or
soulful, always reflect the feelings that Ferrum played a big role in who
they turned out to be.”
Of Ferrum Athletics:
“Athletics is an important reason for many students to begin college, then
it’s always our hope that their attention will turn, over the four years, to
their careers and how they’ll live life after college. Being a Division III
school is good for our students. Division III keeps athletics in the proper
perspective to the academic program.”
Of the Last Days:
“Really the whole last year is the last days. There are many things
that a college president only has the opportunity to do once a year,
like the December graduation ceremonies, the Alpha Mu Gamma
inductions, Commencement. As I do these things for the last time
it’s hard. Now, there are things that I’ve been very happy to do
for the last time, such as the budget. That’s not something that
I’m going to miss.”
Of the Students:
“Shirley and I have always enjoyed watching young people grow
and mature. Our fondest memories of Ferrum will be of the students.
We marvelled each year at how they took advantage of their
educational opportunities and went from fledgling freshmen
to confident graduates, ready for the world.”
Of the Faculty:
“I’m particularly proud of the faculty we have on campus and
our ability to bring in new talent to the classrooms, as well.
For a small college to have the spectrum of experience, expertise,
energy and mentorship that Ferrum has is unique, and it shows
in our graduates. Certainly, the endowed Williams Professorship
has served the college well in that respect, too. Very few colleges of
Ferrum’s size have an endowed visiting professorship each year
to add to the breadth of the curriculum and to offer students
such depth of experience and scholarship.”
All photos this page by Billy Howard
FERRUM MAGAZINE 17