1871 Club suite named after prominent Alcornite, Exie Williamson
The legacy of the late Exie Williamson, a distinguished Alcorn State University alumna, was celebrated by dedicating a suite in her honor.
The ASU Foundation, Inc. and the 1871 Club presented the Exie Williamson Memorial Suite Saturday, Oct. 14 in the press box of Jack Spinks – Marino Casem Stadium. A special presentation was made to the Williamsons, which her son, J.J. Williamson, accepted on behalf of the family.
“This is such a great honor for my family and I,” said Williamson. “My mom gave her life to Alcorn. She bled purple and gold. She helped recruit a lot of students for the university. Because of her, I knew at an early age where I would attend college.”
Williamson’s exemplary employment history includes that of business education teacher at East Side High School in Cleveland, Mississippi, after graduating from Alcorn in 1955. In this position, she had the latitude to recommend course offerings being the first teacher in the Business Education Department. As her career progressed, Mrs. Williamson was selected (1961) by her principal, and received approval from the superintendent of Bolivar County Schools to attend Atlanta University to begin her work toward certification in guidance and counseling. In 1962, she returned to her home city and accepted a position at Jim Hill High School in Jackson, Mississippi, as a business education teacher. In 1965, as a result of her ability to relate effectively to students, faculty, parents and fellow administrators, she was offered the position of guidance counselor at Jim Hill.
Marcus Ward, vice president for Institutional Affairs, acknowledged the importance of saluting Williamson for her outstanding efforts to better the university.
“This in a great occasion, and we are proud to have this opportunity,” said Ward. “The naming of a facility is a very special moment in time, and to name it after someone as special as Ms. Exie is even more sentimental to me. Ms. Exie not only cheered on the Braves, but she also cheered on a number of young people throughout her career in education. We are proud to recognize her contributions to Alcorn.”
Larry Smith, director of athletic development, remembered Williamson as a classy individual who adored Alcorn.
“I had the honor of working with Ms. Williamson, and she was an outstanding individual who loved Alcorn State University,” said Smith. “We are thankful for her many contributions to Alcorn.”
President Alfred Rankins Jr. spoke highly of Williamson. He remembers her for her joyful spirit.
“She always had a smile on her face, and I never heard her speak negatively about Alcorn,” said Rankins. “I can’t think of anyone who sat in the press box and enjoyed themselves as much as Ms. Williamson did. It gives me great pride and honor to dedicate this suite to her.”
