Ralph Manning Holt, Jr. '53
(Year Awarded--1998)

As a child, Ralph Holt learned from three uncles what the spirit of Davidson is all about. As a young man, he experienced Davidson vicariously through the matriculation of three Holt cousins and the involvement of his father who served as a trustee. Ralph Holt then went on to experience Davidson for himself, spending four years at the College as a student. As a parent, he later shared his love for Davidson with a daughter and three sons, sending all four children to alma mater. As an alumnus, he has encouraged his fellow alumni to remember this same spirit and to give back to the school that gave them so much.

In his years as a student, he was an active member of the Davidson community. His willingness to serve and his ability to encourage and support others in their endeavors were exemplified in his involvement with the track team, the YMCA and his Beta Theta Pi Fraternity.

He carried into his life after Davidson the selfless nature of stewardship he displayed while a student. As president and treasurer of Holt Hosiery Mills in Burlington, North Carolina, he has remained an integral part of the Davidson Community. Throughout his life he has been a role model and motivator for Davidson alumni, students, and parents. For twelve years he was active on the Board of Trustees, representing the Salem Presbytery and serving as Chairman of the Finance and Budget Committee. In addition, he served graciously as a member of both the Board of Visitors and the Parents Council, Chair of the Burlington Regional Campaign during the successful Campaign for Davidson, and Chair of the Annual Fund in 1987. Both his service to Davidson and his generosity of resources to this institution have had a monumental impact that will live on with the Davidson spirit.

It is no surprise that he has not let his boundless dedication to Davidson hinder his service to his own church and community. He has served in various leadership roles at First Presbyterian Church in Burlington and has given of himself to numerous community outreach programs including the YMCA and the United Way.

Because you have lived a life of service in the spirit of Davidson by sharing your time, talents, and resources with alma mater, family, church, and community, and because through your example you have encouraged others to lead lives of service, the Davidson College Alumni Association honors you, Ralph Manning Holt, Jr., and presents you with this Alumni Service Award as we gather tonight in Greensboro, North Carolina on this day, February 26th 1998.