Thomas Barber Stockton '52
(Year Awarded--1997)

When Tom Stockton came to Davidson, he already knew that he wanted to be a minister. His activities in high school at R. J. Reynolds High in Winston-Salem gave a glimmer of the kind of impact he would have on Davidson and all those around him. Active in student government, service and sports, Tom led by example in a humble and quiet manner. His senior year at Davidson, a cross country and track team star, Tom broke two school records and would have broken a third if he had not slowed down to let two of his teammates finish in a three way tie with him. Through service to his class as President, Tom continued to lead after graduation through his work with the Alumni Office and the Annual Fund.

Family has always been paramount to Tom, sharing his Davidson experience with twin brother Dick and then marrying his high school sweetheart Jean. Children Lisa Shawn, Tom, Jr., and Jean Shannon remain the highlights in Tom and Jean's lives.

Tom's career in the Methodist Church has been stellar. This "boyish looking" minister has served his church and the community at large for over 40 years in Charlotte, Reidsville, Asheville, High Point, and Richmond. He has received numerous service awards and honors and in 1988 was elected Bishop. Throughout his career, Tom has been known for his modest and forthright style and his commitment to others. He has been described by members of his congregation as "vital and dynamic in his own quiet way" and as having "real sincerity with 5th Avenue charm and deep country realism." After serving as the resident bishop in Virginia for eight years, Tom has come back home to North Carolina.

Because you epitomize lifetime loyalty to your schools and family, your church and community, and because you represent the highest standards of Davidson, the Davidson College Alumni Association gratefully recognizes you, Thomas B. Stockton, with this Distinguished Alumnus Award on the occasion of your Forty-fifth Reunion, April 19, 1997.