William R. Harvey Ph.D.

1999 Honoree

To lead one of the top Black universities in the country, to be the 100% owner of the Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company of Houghton, Michigan, and to serve as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve simultaneously, one has to possess wisdom, boldness, and vision. Meet the wise and bold visionary: Dr. William R. Harvey, Hampton University’s president since 1978.

The native of Brewton, Alabama, began his academic and military career after graduating from Talledega College in Alabama. He went on to serve three years on active duty with the United States Army and earn a doctorate from Harvard University. Prior to assuming his current academic appointment, Dr. Harvey served as administrative assistant to the president of Fisk University and as assistant for governmental affairs to the dean of the Harvard University Graduate School of Education.

Dr.Harvey’s leadership in higher education and business has solidified Hampton University’s stellar position among the nation’s colleges and universities. During his tenure, student enrollment has increased from approximately 2,700 students to more than 6,000, 33 new academic programs have been created, 11 new buildings have been erected, and existing facilities have undergone $35 million worth of renovations.

A strong advocate of self-sufficiency and empowerment for African-Americans, Dr. Harvey initiated the recently-completed Hampton Harbor Project, a residential and commercial development consisting of 246 two-bedroom apartments and 60,000 square feet of commercial rental space. After-tax profits from the Hampton Harbor Project will be primarily used for student scholarships.

The father of three’s commitment to his community is just as strong as his dedication to Hampton University. In 1992, Dr. Harvey initiated the Job Education Training (JET) Corps, a program modeled after the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps. He chaired the Virginia Peninsula United Way Campaign in 1994 and helped to raise a record-setting $6.6 million. Also, he serves as a board member of First Union National Bank of Virginia, Newport News Shipbuilding, Inc., and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

To America’s youth, he says “Life is full of choices. In making those choices, always do what you think is right, even if no one is looking.”