Lunsford Richardson, Jr. '45
(Year Awarded--1997)

Throughout his seven decades, Lunsford "Lump" Richardson, member of the Class of '45, has been distinguished by the steadfastness of his leadership, devotion, and service. Wherever and whenever called, he has utilized his considerable abilities and energies to the benefit of the spheres of business, education, and community causes. Responding to a 1954 alumni survey, he wrote: "At Davidson, an intangible something is gained that results in alumni of particularly high character and ability and of value to society and community." Lunsford Richardson is surely such an alumnus.

This son of Greensboro, North Carolina, traveled south to attend Davidson in the fall of 1941. He was preceded at Davidson by many family members, including his father, grandfather, and great uncle, Henry Louis Smith, a president of Davidson. Following his years at Davidson, he took his talents to New York and began an exemplary career in the Vicks Chemical Corporation and later with Richardson-Vicks, the Richardson Corporation, Reinsurance Corporation of New York, and Piedmont Management; his many achievements were recognized with induction into the North Carolina Business Leaders Hall of Fame. He also embarked on a life-long avocation of civic involvement and philanthropy. The "north" is also where he met his wife of forty years, Bea. He is at home and adept on Wall Street, on his North Carolina farm, or under the hood of his '62 Chevy pick-up truck.

Though distant in miles from Davidson, he continued his interest and involvement in the life of the College. As a trustee, campaign leader, and generous benefactor, he has been an active force for good in the life of the College. His involvement is seen in every aspect of the College -- facilities, scholarships, and professorships. Davidson is surely the better for his involvement.

Because you embody the virtues of loyalty, leadership, and service to family, business, and alma mater, and because you uphold the highest personal standards, the Davidson College Alumni Association recognizes you, Lunsford Richardson, Jr., with the Distinguished Alumnus Award on the occasion of your Fiftieth Reunion from Davidson.