 "Photo: ‘Neka Jones/Echo staff photographer")
Colleagues, friends and family convened on Friday for a retirement celebration in honor of N.C. Central University maintenance mechanic and carpentry supervisor James Abdullah.
Abdullah started working at NCCU in 1988. Before coming to NCCU, he worked as a private contractor doing carpentry.
During his 22-year career at NCCU, Abdullah served under 12 different facility directors and five different chancellors.
He built cabinets, renovated buildings and converted classrooms into offices.
One of the most notable projects he was involved in was the reconstruction of the Bell Tower on Campus Drive in 1989.
"My job has been fulfilling, and I have accomplished a lot in my time here," said Abdullah.
His service to NCCU went beyond his craft as carpenter.
Abdullah was the first chair of the staff senate in 1998 and has helped current staff senate chair, Rebie Coleman, establish a scholarship fund for staff members.
"He planted the seed for the staff senate and was instrumental in helping it grow," said Coleman.
"It was awesome working with him," said Coleman.
Abdullah spoke passionately for 10 minutes about helping students and carrying on James E. Shepard's legacy.
"We must be ambassadors for NCCU," he said.
At the retirement celebration, Phillip Powell, director of facilities services, presented Abdullah with a plaque and flowers in appreciation of his service to NCCU.
The consensus among James Abdullah's colleagues is that he has always been a source of inspiration and guidance.
Tony Hunter was hired four years ago by Abdullah and was taught a helpful lesson.
"I was used to working by myself, but when I came here, Mr. Abdullah told me I had to learn how to work with others and interact with people."
"He's been an inspiration and he's definitely a people person. We should celebrate great people in our lives," said Walter Moore.
Abdullah hasn't ruled out working again, but he does have other tasks to complete. "I have a six-month ‘Honey-Do list' waiting for me," he said.
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