Davidson College’s graduation every May is always a community event as well as a campus celebration, in part because of presentation of the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award. That’s when the college recognizes students and members of the Davidson community for their “fine spiritual qualities practically applied to daily living, usually going to persons who have given unselfish service without due recognition.”

This year’s awards were given out at Sunday’s commencement and went to three people well known around town: two townspeople – Pam Stephenson and Bernice Houston – and senior Katie Epstein. Read on for details of their awards.

Bernice Houston (Bill Giduz photo)

BERNICE HOUSTON

A lifelong Davidson resident, Bernice Houston was praised for personifying the best aspirations of college and town. Known affectionately as “Mama Bunt” to many in town, she has been a leader in civil rights work, church life and civic engagement.

She has supported the Ada Jenkins Center, the Child Development Center, the Pines retirement community, affordable housing organizations, and the Aging in Place Task Force. She has also been a role model for young people and gracious friend to many.

(See Jennifer Szakaly’s March 2010 feature, “Bernice Houston: A lifetime of service.”)

Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award winner Pam Stephenson and her husband, Bob. (Bill Giduz photo)

PAM STEPHENSON

Pam Stephenson was cited for her commitment to the Davidson Community Players theater company. Ms. Stephenson was the group’s first executive director, after the departure of founder Connie Welsh. She became active in the organization at a time when it seemed to be faltering, and revitalized it through the power of her warm and encouraging spirit.

Her citation read, “Her gift for organizing, directing and inspiring people to work toward a common goal and her respect for each person’s unique and individual offerings has attracted many townspeople and newcomers to this distinctive aspect of our community life.” She was also lauded as a supportive friend to students and adults in need. One of her nominators testified, “It has never been ‘about her.’ It has always been about those she served.”

Katie Epstein

KATIE EPSTEIN

Graduating senior Katie Epstein has been a leader in the environmental movement at Davidson and elsewhere. She actually deferred her enrollment at the college to hike the Appalachian Trail alone.

She wrote a successful proposal to the college that resulted in establishment of the Eco House, an off-campus residence where 10 students live and promote an eco-friendly lifestyle. She has also served on the board of the Davidson Farmer’s Market, and wrote a senior thesis on mountain top coal removal.

RELATED COVERAGE

See previous mentions of the Sullivan Award on DavidsonNews.net, CLICK HERE>