Salisbury Post February 13, 2011 Livingstone's HBCU status a point of pride By Sarah Campbell Salisbury Mayor Susan Kluttz says Livingstone College is an important part of the city's history. "I am very proud to have a Historically Black College in this city," she said. "I think that's something that really enriches us a city and our quality of life here." Students at Livingstone say attending a Historically Black College is meaningful for them. Senior music major Sir Davis said the fact that Livingstone is nestled in Salisbury makes it unique. "A lot of other Historically Black Colleges and Universities are in cities that are a bit more urban," he said. "It's significant in that it's an advantage to have a Historically Black College here because we get to learn about our heritage even though the town we are in isn't as diverse." The Rev. Willie E. Givens Jr., a senior religious studies and psychology major, said Livingstone is a beacon of hope to minority students. "It really gives proof that African-Americans can excel and defy stereotypes," he said. Kluttz said she is grateful for the caliber of students who graduate from Livingstone and go on to become leaders in the community. "I'm always amazed the type of leaders that Livingstone produces who contribute all over the country and the world," she said. The Rev. Vivian Williams, a senior history and religious studies major, said there is a sense of pride in belonging to a Historically Black College. "It allows for a place of reference and record keeping of our heritage," she said. "There are a lot of historical buildings here so the community of Salisbury has a jewel right here in the middle of the city." Williams said her own experience at Livingstone has allowed her to live her dream. "I was never a good student the first time around, but I'm on the Honor Society now," she said. "Livingstone has brought a lot out of me." And, Williams said, Livingstone isn't just a good college for African Americans. "It's a great resource that anyone can tap into, it doesn't matter the color of your skin," she said. Contact reporter Sarah Campbell at 704-797-7683. SANDRA M. PHOENIX Program Director HBCU Library Alliance sphoenix@hbculibraries.org<mailto:sphoenix@hbculibraries.org> www.hbculibraries.org<http://www.hbculibraries.org/> 404.592.4820 Skype:sandra.phoenix1 1438 West Peachtree Street NW Suite 200 Atlanta, GA 30309 Toll Free: 1.800.999.8558 (Lyrasis) Fax: 404.892.7879 www.lyrasis.org<http://www.lyrasis.org/> Honor the ancestors, honor the children.