Dr. Mark Hammond, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Campbell University, received one of Distinguished Alumni Class of 2009 awards from Ashland High School in Ohio on Oct. 3, 2009.
The youngest alum to be recognized, Hammond was deeply honored that his sister nominated him for the award.
“This year the high school will celebrate its 15,000th graduate, so it’s a privilege to be one that has been recognized with this award,” said Hammond. “Only about 25 people have received the distinguished alumnus award to date, so it’s especially meaningful to me.”
The weekend included touring the high school, sitting in on a video production class, recognition at the football game and being interviewed by the student newspaper. The inductees were honored at a celebration dinner at Ashland University’s John C. Myers Convocation Center.
“The high school looks very much the same, and it remains in remarkable condition. The current principal, Mr. Robert Lake, was my 9th grade algebra teacher,” said Hammond. “My classmate and football teammate Scott Valentine is now the coach of the Ashland Arrows football team; he has coached the team to very successful seasons over the last several years.”
Hammond didn’t stray far from his roots when he began working at Campbell though.
“My high school colors are orange and black so you can be sure they loved my orange and black Campbell University tie at the banquet,” he said.
Photo Copy: Dr. Mark Hammond, dean of Campbell University’s College of Arts and Sciences.