Derry Harper '76
(Awarded 2011)

Derry Harper arrived at Davidson in the fall of 1972 from Memphis, Tennessee. He brought with him core values of honesty, integrity, a sense of humor, and the importance of family and friendships. Derry also arrived with a willingness to serve others, and he has demonstrated that commitment to service throughout his life.

Derry majored in political science at Davidson. He was a varsity track athlete, and he was active on the Union Board and at WDAV. He was president of the Black Student Coalition, and a North Carolina Fellow.

After Davidson, Derry received his law degree from Vanderbilt University. He has had a distinguished career in both law and business, serving the attorney general in the state of Tennessee and as general counsel for South Central Bell Telephone Company. Since February of 2002, he has served the state of Florida as chief inspector general for Governor Jeb Bush, and as Inspector General for the State College System.

Derry's service to alma mater is legendary. There is almost nothing he hasn't done for Davidson College: President of the Alumni Association, member of the Board of Trustees and Board of Visitors, leader of the Davidson Alumni Admission Program, and leader of the Davidson Black Alumni Network. Derry also served on his 25th Reunion planning committee and he has been a tireless fundraiser for Davidson, graciously responding every time the college asks for his support. His record of service to Davidson is simply unsurpassed.

Derry, for your personal and professional accomplishments these past 35 years; for your devotion to community, family, and friends; for your grace, character, and wit; and, most of all, for your exceptional service to Davidson College, the Davidson College Alumni Association is proud to honor you with the Alumni Service Award.