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High Point The Way I See It



High Point is an experience.  It’s the foundation of my success and the core of my being.  It’s been a road map to freedom for millions.  She’s rich in tradition and considered by many to be a melting pot for the Carolinas.  In 1995 when I left for college I had no idea in the years that would follow, that High Point would be so heavily engrained in my soul. 

As young a person it’s easy to allow the quest for greatness to become tainted by life.  High Point is who I am, the people, the sites, the smell of the handcrafted furniture being engineered by thousands and the authenticity of who High Point as a community.  In those un-pure moments the thought of those things will remind you of whom and who’s you are.  

This weekend as I cruised by High Point University I was reminded by the voices of the great ones that are no longer with us. I thought about Mr. Fo Fo working in the cafeteria during my high school days at summer basketball camp.  I could hear him saying, “McQueen you better eat so you can shoot that ball boy”! He was a tough guy from the streets but he cared about us young people.  High Point represents the simple things that make life grand. The Mary Lou Blakneys, the Hank Walls, the Ed Price’s of the world, the Jerry Camps, the Ken Browns and the Bruce Davis’s working to build wealth beyond a dollar.  Priceless!

My most recent visit was one that caused me to lose sleep.  I didn’t lose sleep because it was negative experience, but because I was in awe over the depth of the traditions and the history that I’ve been privy to my entire life. I guess it’s safe to say I’ve had my “Ah Hah” moment.  Growing up, I always knew that I was surrounded by pioneers, but now understanding what to do with that information has me stretching to the next level. 

The next level requires me to be a teacher as well as a quiet student.  The next level requires me to bridge the challenging social and economic gaps within my community.  It requires me to understand and to embrace my history.  It also requires me to be a “freedom rider”.  High Point has charged me along with my peers to be the next cream of the crop. 

So, to the William Penn family there will never be another you.  You’re great in all that you do and have done. Your names are in the record books.   To the Friends of Coltrane, you’ve answered the call of the legends of yesteryear and the promise of those of tomorrow.
High Point the way I see it you are and always will be the best!    

Sincerely, Your native Son.   
    



Photography Student Kelsey Dickey

William Penn Alumni


The Tiger
The Stars of the John Coltrane Jazz Festival 

Legendary Jazz Vocalist Patti Austin

William Penn Class of "58"

Comments

Olivia Shaw said…
JJ this is beautiful. I read this to someone and they were really moved by your insight. I love, you keep living and learning.
September 8, 2011 at 11:44 AM
Leroy m said…
Even though you're my family, it's great to see such prominent business men such as yourself still take an interest in High Point the way that you do. I wish you much success on your journey and God bless.
September 8, 2011 at 12:15 PM
Patrick Medley said…
I see you recognize some things I saw years ago. I hope I carried myself in a manner that you learned from as a student-athlete before you and as a humanitarian like you. I salute you.

Pmedley
September 8, 2011 at 9:55 PM
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