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Allegany College Of Maryland to Honor Alexander On November 17th

November 3rd, 2014 by WCBC Radio

Allegany College of Maryland will honor the late Dr. Donald L. Alexander, who served 28 years as ACM’s third president, with a celebration of his life Monday, Nov. 17, in the College Center.

The event will recognize the achievements of the community college and commend Dr. Alexander for his vital role in its success as ACM’s chief executive officer from 1980 to 2008. He passed away Sept. 18 after a long illness in Williamsburg, Va., where he had lived in retirement.

Dr. Alexander’s tenure was characterized by strong, visionary leadership during an important period in the institution’s 53-year history. The former ACC added programs and infrastructure to the Willowbrook Road campus to become a comprehensive college serving Allegany County and the surrounding tri-state area.

ACM also developed into a regional institution through establishment of the Gateway Center in downtown Cumberland, campuses in Bedford and Somerset counties in Pennsylvania, nursing education in Garrett County and student residential housing on the Cumberland campus.

His drive to increase access to higher education and post-secondary training was supported by the creation of Foundations at each of the three campuses. Student scholarships to make these opportunities more available are their primary focus.

Dr. Alexander is also remembered for personal traits that included compassion, accessibility and respect for others, attributes embodied in ACM’s long-used slogan, “Offering That Personal Touch Only a Small College Can Provide.”

The tribute, titled “Giving Thanks for the Life of Dr. Donald L. Alexander,” will feature words of remembrance by former colleagues, including two retired vice presidents, the current and former chairs of the Board of Trustees, and a longtime faculty member who is also an athletic coach and administrator.

The commemoration, which begins at 3 p.m. in the Haines Student Lounge of ACM’s College Center, coincides with the unveiling of a visual exhibit of college achievements and Dr. Alexander’s contributions during his 38 years with the institution.

The display of photos, text and other items, which also bears the “Giving Thanks” title, will be on view in the Hazen Gallery into 2015. Alexander family members will be present for the appreciation of Dr. Alexander.

Although invitations have been sent, all interested individuals are welcome to attend. A reception will follow the remembrance event.  

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