Carrie Halsell Ward facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Carrie Halsell Ward
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| Born | October 26, 1903 Boulder, Colorado, US
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| Died | July 1, 1989 (aged 85) Orangeburg, South Carolina, US
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| Occupation | University business instructor |
| Known for | First Black student to graduate from Oregon State University |
Carrie Halsell Ward (born 1903, died 1989) was a very important person in the history of Oregon State University. She was the first African-American student to graduate from that university. Carrie earned her degree in Commerce in 1926.
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Early Life
Carrie Halsell was born on October 26, 1903, in Boulder, Colorado. She was the third of six children born to William and Bessie Halsell. Around 1912, her family moved to Salem, Oregon.
In Salem, her father, William, worked many different jobs. He was a janitor, a laborer, and a farmer. By 1921, he owned a shop on State Street.
Carrie was a great student in high school. She was often on the honor roll, which means she got excellent grades. She also joined many school activities. Carrie was part of the glee club, girls' club, and commercial club. She even competed in typewriting contests. In 1921, she graduated from Salem High School.
Education and Career
Starting Her Career
After graduating from Oregon Agricultural College (now Oregon State University) in 1926, Carrie moved to Portland. Her family had also moved there. She found work as a housekeeper for the Meier & Frank department store. At that time, it was hard for Black women to find many job opportunities.
In September 1927, Carrie took a new job in Virginia. She worked at Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute, which is now Virginia State University. She started as a stenographer, which is someone who takes notes using shorthand. She also helped the registrar, who manages student records. Later, she became a business instructor there. While in Virginia, Carrie helped start the Alpha Eta chapter of Delta Sigma Theta. This is a historic Black sorority, a social and service organization for women.
Teaching in South Carolina
In 1945, Carrie moved to South Carolina. She took a position at South Carolina State University. Her husband, Louis Morris Ward, was already a faculty member there. He taught Business Administration.
Carrie wanted to learn even more. So, she went to New York University during the summers. In 1949, she earned her Master's in Business Administration. She continued to teach and share her knowledge.
Carrie Halsell Ward passed away in July 1989. She was 85 years old and living in Orangeburg, South Carolina.
Lasting Legacy
Carrie Halsell Ward left a lasting impact. In 2002, Oregon State University honored her by naming a residence hall after her. It is called Halsell Hall.
In 2016, her old high school, Salem High School, also recognized her achievements. They gave her an award after her death. This award celebrated her as the first African American to graduate from Salem High School. Her life showed how important education and perseverance can be.
