William Ledoux Bondurant '58
(Year Awarded--1998)

Throughout his life, William Bondurant has been distinguished by his leadership role in providing services to others. A son of Winston-Salem, Bill arrived at Davidson in the fall of 1954, following the path of older brother Gordon '57. He immediately became active in the life of the College. He was president of both his fraternity, Beta Theta Pi, and of the Honor Society ODK; he was also a member of the student government and Davidsonian staff.

Graduating from Davidson in 1958 with a degree in economics, he earned his law degree from Duke University. He embarked on a legal career but answered the call of Alma Mater to become director of alumni relations. He later served Davidson as legal counsel and as assistant to President D. Grier Martin.

In 1968, Bill began what would be a quarter century career in philanthropy, becoming a program associate in the Winston-Salem-based Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation. In this endeavor, he nurtured and furthered the Foundation's mission to promote progressive change in the areas of the environment, poverty, human relations, and the arts.

In 1973, he briefly left the world of philanthropy to assist fellow alumnus Governor James Holshouser. Bill held the important position of secretary of administration. The fact that this lifelong Democrat was selected to work in a Republican administration is true testament to his intelligence and abilities, as well as his patience and good will.

In 1974, he returned to the Babcock Foundation as executive director. During his nearly twenty years in this position, Bill became one of the nation's most well-known and well-respected foundation executives. Under his direction, the Babcock Foundation assumed a position of leadership in addressing the most difficult and pressing societal needs. The Foundation became a national model for other philanthropic entities.

In 1993, this always active and creative individual embarked on new careers. Today, he serves as chief operating officer for Bioxy, a biotechnology research cooperation. And he continues to remain active in his first love -- philanthropy, helping individuals establish foundations and providing consulting services to individuals and foundations.

Because you make Davidson proud to claim you as her own, and because you have held yourself to the highest standards in a career of service to your fellow man, the Davidson College Alumni Association recognizes you, William Ledoux Bondurant, with the Distinguished Alumnus Award, on the occasion of your 40th Reunion.