Meridian Community College: Class Of 2022 Hall Of Fame Honorees Express Their Gratitude

Press release from Meridian Community College:

March 11, 2022

Thankful. Grateful. Appreciative.

That’s how the Meridian Community College’s 2022 Hall of Fame recipients, Wilhelmine
Damon, Dr. Ray Denton, Anne Dowdle, and Dr. Tajudeen Soyoye, repeatedly summed up
their acknowledgments as they spoke during the ceremony that applauded them.

The honorees are alumni or former employees who have excelled in their careers and
life missions. They have elevated MCC’s esteem through their achievements, service,
and association with the higher educational institution.

“I consider myself very fortunate to have spent so much of my life working, learning,
and growing at this community college where big dreams can indeed come true,” said
Dowdle. She retired from MCC in 2000, serving as the director of institutional advancement.

Damon, who is 95, said, “I’m so thankful at this age, and at this stage, I’m able
to say a public thank you for letting me be connected to this college. It’s been indeed
a pleasure, and I’m most appreciative.” Damon, an alumna of MCC, served as a physical
education instructor for more than 30 years.

Dr. Denton, an alumnus who retired from the College as the dean of learning resources,
acknowledged his MCC colleagues for his success.

Dr. Soyoye, who graduated from MCC in 1999 and is today an emergency room doctor and
family physician who holds licensures in Georgia, Missouri, and New York, said, “most
of the dreams that are brought to this campus are being fulfilled. And I have to be
very, very grateful for that.”

Hosted by the MCC Foundation, the induction ceremony was held in the McCain Theater.
It also honored MCC housekeeping staffer Larry Martin for his 30 years of service
to the institution, and he was named to the Talon Club.

This press release was produced by Meridian Community College. The views expressed here are the author’s own.