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Former Shaw, Howard University president James Cheek dies

Published: Sunday, January 10, 2010

Updated: Sunday, January 10, 2010

Jan. 10--RALEIGH -- James E. Cheek, a Shaw University alumnus and youngest president in the school's history, died Friday. He was 77.


Born in Roanoke Rapids, Cheek was named Shaw president in 1963 at the age of 30. He remained in the post for five years until his appointment as president of Howard University in Washington in 1968.
 

He retired from Howard in 1989.
 

"The entire Shaw University family today mourns the loss of one of our most beloved leaders, and we send our sincere condolences to the Cheek family," said Shaw University Board of Trustees Chairman Willie Gary, a Shaw alumnus and 1974 N.C. Central University law school graduate.

"Dr. Cheek had a profound effect on every aspect of this institution, from academics and research, to student life, alumni affairs and our engagement with the community. In a short period of time, his vision and leadership helped to make Shaw University the outstanding institution it is today."
 

Dorothy Cowser Yancy, Shaw's interim president, said "Shaw University will continue to benefit from Dr. Cheek's tremendous legacy."
 

Cheek graduated from Shaw in 1956 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and sociology. He received a Doctor of Ministry degree from Colgate Rochester and a Ph.D. from Drew University.
 

In 1983, Dr. Cheek was honored with the nation's highest civilian award, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The recipient of hundreds of awards and nineteen honorary degrees, Dr. Cheek will always be remembered as an educator, who further paved the way for other African American leaders in education.
 

Cheek is survived by his wife, Celestine, two children and four grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements had not been finalized as of Saturday night.

 

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