CHAPEL HILL – The UNC BOG recognized our former Governor James Holshouser and honored his life with an award in his name. UNC System President Tom Ross says Holshouser was a great leader and influenced many.
“This University and our entire state lost a consummate public servant, a source of infinite wisdom and a true statesman, this summer with the passing of Jim Holshouser” Ross stated.
Holshouser served as Governor of North Carolina from 1973 to 1977. He also served on the Board of Governors for the UNC system for more than 30 years where many members have said they valued his thoughts and practices.
“I always told people that Governor Holshouser should have been named Mr. E.F. Hutton, because when he spoke truly everyone listened” Ross said “in word and indeed he personified the true meaning of statesmanship and servant leadership, and our university had no greater friend or stronger ally.”
To honor Holshouser the BOG voted to change the name of their public service award to the Governor Holshouser award for excellence in public service. This award was originally created in 2007 to encourage, identify, recognize, and reward public service by faculty of the University. Holshouser exemplified many of the characteristics that this award represents. BOG member Peter Hans says words do not describe the loss of Holshouser.
“President mentioned in his remarks, we lost a giant in June, and a man who epitomizes public service” Hans commented.
The board also recognized another BOG member that recently passed, Julius Chambers. Chambers was a civil rights attorney for many years along with Chancellor of North Carolina Central University.
For more information on James Holshouser click here.
