Harrison B. Wilson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Harrison B. Wilson
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| Second President of Norfolk State University |
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| In office 1975–1997 |
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| Preceded by | Lyman Beecher Brooks |
| Succeeded by | Marie V. McDemmond |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Harrison Benjamin Wilson Jr.
April 21, 1925 Amsterdam, New York, U.S. |
| Died | July 28, 2019 (aged 94) |
| Spouses | Anna Williams (died 1967) Lucy Cutliff |
| Children | Benjamin F. Wilson
Harrison B. Wilson III John R. Wilson Richard A. Wilson Jennifer C. Wilson M. April Woodard, née Wilson |
| Relatives | Russell Wilson (grandson) Anna Wilson (granddaughter) |
| Education | Kentucky State University (B.A.) Indiana University Bloomington (M.A., Ph.D.) |
| Profession | Educator Professor Coach |
Harrison Benjamin Wilson Jr. (April 21, 1925 – July 28, 2019) was an important American educator and sports coach. He is best known for being the second president of Norfolk State University. He led the university for many years, from 1975 to 1997.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Harrison B. Wilson Jr. was born on April 21, 1925, in Amsterdam, New York. His parents were Marguerite (Ayers) and Harrison Benjamin Wilson Sr.
After high school, he joined the United States Navy. He served his country from 1945 to 1947. After his military service, he went to Kentucky State College for Negroes. This school is now known as Kentucky State University.
At Kentucky State, he was an excellent student. He also became a star athlete. He played basketball, football, baseball, and ran track. He earned his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree there.
Later, in the early 1950s, Wilson continued his studies. He attended Indiana University Bloomington. There, he earned two more advanced degrees. He received a master's degree in physical education. He also earned a Ph.D. in health science and administration.
A Career in Coaching and Leadership
Harrison B. Wilson Jr. had a long and successful career. He was a talented college basketball coach. From 1950 to 1967, he coached basketball at Jackson College for Negro Teachers. This school is now called Jackson State University.
During his time as coach, his teams had an amazing record. They won 342 games and lost only 88. That's a fantastic winning percentage! While at Jackson College, he also led the Department of Health and Physical Education. He was the chair of this department from 1960 to 1967.
Leading Norfolk State University
In 1975, Dr. Wilson became the second president of Norfolk State University (NSU). He served in this important role for 22 years. He retired from NSU in 1997.
After he retired, NSU honored him greatly. The main administrative building at the university was named after him. It is located in Downtown Norfolk. Old Dominion University also recognized him. They honored him as part of their "Strong Men and Women Excellence" leadership series.
Family Life and Legacy
Harrison B. Wilson Jr. was a family man. He had six children. He was first married to Anna Williams, who passed away in 1967. Later, he married Lucy Cutliff. Lucy was a former teacher at Old Dominion University. She also served on the Norfolk Public Schools Board.
His family includes some well-known athletes. His grandson, Russell Wilson, is a famous Super Bowl-winning quarterback. His granddaughter, Anna Wilson, is also a talented athlete. She played basketball for Stanford. She helped her team reach the NCAA Final Four in 2022.
Dr. Wilson was also very involved in his community. He was a member of several important boards and organizations. He joined the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity at Kentucky State University. He was also a member of the Alpha Kappa Mu honor society.
Harrison B. Wilson Jr. passed away on July 28, 2019. His legacy lives on through his family and the university he led.
