Samuel Sharp Ryburn '38
(Year Awarded--1997)

Sam Ryburn began his interest in turning a phrase and his extraordinary way with words as an undergraduate at Davidson. A writer for the Davidsonian and the editor of Scripts 'n Pranks, he also was a member of the Eumenean Literary Society and Sigma Upsilon, the honor society for creative writing.

Sam took his interest in writing and words to the printing business. He began working for Herald Press, a commercial printing company, in 1938, and then helped found Engraph, Inc., in 1946, where he worked for forty-three years. In addition to his dedication to his work, he also has been active in community service through his church and on numerous local boards. One of his most impressive accomplishments has come in more recent years through his participation in the CROP Walk. For many years in a row, he has been named the CROP Walk's top fundraiser in Charlotte; and several years in a row, he has been named the top fundraiser in the nation.

At the same time, Sam found time to serve alma mater as a member of the Alumni Association Board, as an Annual Fund class agent, as the chair of his class' Fifty-fifth Reunion, and through the Avant Garde. Through his generosity and that of his wife Fran, a dormitory in Martin Court has been named for them. Most consistent, though, is his service as the Class of 1938's class secretary. Through his love of words and his dedication to keeping in touch with his classmates, he has informed and entertained them and others for the past thirty-four years.

Because you enthusiastically serve Davidson and have delighted others in the process, and because you make Davidson proud to claim you as her own, the Davidson College Alumni Association presents this Alumni Service Award to you, Samuel Sharp Ryburn, on this day, May 27, 1997.