Barrington Heath Branch '62
(Year Awarded--2002)   

Former Davidsonian Woodrow Wilson once said, "There is no higher religion than human service. To work for the common good is the greatest creed." President Wilson's understanding of Davidson ideals was clearly expressed through these words. Barrington Heath Branch, another exceptional Davidsonian, has exhibited over the years his belief in those Davidson ideals working for the "common good" of alma mater and its alumni.

Arriving at Davidson from Atlanta, Georgia, Barry distinguished himself on campus immediately. He joined the men's swim team and participated in intramural golf and tennis while also finding time to write for The Davidsonian and participate in the Spanish and International Relations Clubs, ROTC, YMCA, and the Eumenean Literary Society. Upon graduation, Barry served his country as an ROTC commissioned officer for several years before beginning law school.

After graduating from Duke University School of Law, Barry specialized in corporate, banking, and securities law for the Atlanta firm of Hansel, Post, Brandon and Dorsey. A few short years later, he began a successful career in commercial real estate, serving as president, executive vice president, and/or part owner of five major real estate companies and managing over $8 billion in commercial projects. Simultaneously, Barry has served on numerous Boards of Directors in Atlanta and nationally, including the National Realty Committee, Association for Foreign Investors in U.S. Real Estate, Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, and Urban Land Institute.

Despite his commitment to so many other good causes, Barry has always found time for Davidson. As Chapter President of the Atlanta Alumni Chapter, he brought Davidson alumni together for symposiums, receptions, and social gatherings. For eight years he served as his class's Annual Fund chair, rallying his classmates to raise needed funds for the college. During The Campaign for Davidson, Barry served as a member of the very successful Atlanta Regional Campaign. He made presentations on campus as a member of the Board of Visitors, and has supported his class by faithfully attending reunions. Barry's fellow alumni clearly have recognized him as a leader, electing him to the Alumni Association Board. His commitment to Davidson will live on for many years to come through an endowed scholarship established by his brother and him in memory of their father Harllee Branch '27.

Because you are a leader in every sense of the word; because you inspire others to your high standard of service; and because you have always responded to alma mater's call with enthusiasm, the Davidson College Alumni Association honors you, Barrington Heath Branch, with the Alumni Service Award, on the occasion of the Class of 1962's 40th Reunion, April 20, 2002.