William R. Harvey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William R. Harvey
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Harvey in 2020
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| 12th President of Hampton University | |
| In office July 1, 1978 – June 30, 2022 |
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| Preceded by | Carl McClellan Hill |
| Succeeded by | Darrell K. Williams |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
William Robert Harvey
January 29, 1941 Brewton, Alabama, U.S. |
| Spouse | Norma Baker |
| Children | 3 |
| Residences | Hampton, Virginia, U.S. |
| Alma mater | Talladega College Virginia State University Harvard University |
William Robert Harvey was born on January 29, 1941, in Brewton, Alabama. He is an American educator, a leader in schools, and a businessman. He was the president of Hampton University from 1978 to 2022.
Dr. Harvey served as president for nearly 44 years. This makes him the longest-serving president in the school's history. He also became the first African-American owner in the soft drink bottling business. He and his wife, Norma Baker Harvey, bought a Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company in 1986. Dr. Harvey announced his plan to retire in December 2020. He officially retired on June 30, 2022.
Contents
Leading Hampton University
William R. Harvey spent most of his career at Hampton University. He started as president on July 1, 1978. He worked hard to make the university a better place.
A Long and Successful Presidency
During his time, Dr. Harvey helped Hampton University grow a lot. He focused on making sure students got a great education. He also helped the university become well-known for its programs. His leadership lasted for more than four decades. This is a very long time for a university president.
A Pioneer in Business
Besides his work in education, Dr. Harvey also made a big mark in business. He showed that leaders can succeed in many different areas. His business venture was quite unique for an educator.
Owning a Pepsi-Cola Company
In 1986, Dr. Harvey and his wife, Norma Baker Harvey, bought a Pepsi-Cola bottling company. This was a big step. It made him the first African-American to own such a business in the soft drink industry. This achievement showed his skills beyond the world of schools.
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