Buies Creek, N.C.—Fuquay-Varinaresident Bernard Franklin McLeod, Jr. was honored recently during Campbell University’s graduation exercises held Saturday, Dec. 18. McLeod received the J.A. Campbell Meritorious Service Award given to Campbell alumni whose lives reflect the uncompromising moral values and Christian leadership of University founder J.A. Campbell.
A native of Buies Creek, McLeod’s childhood home stood where Campbell’s new John W. Pope, Jr. Convocation Center, the site of Saturday’s graduation exercises, now stands. McLeod began first grade at what was then Buies Creek School and received an Associate of Art degree from Campbell College in 1945. He continued his education at Wake Forest University, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in business in 1949.
A successful entrepreneur and educator, McLeod excelled in several career fields. He began his professional life as a science teacher and coach at Boone Trail High School and segued into careers as automobile dealer, insurance agent, tobacco purchaser and, most recently, real estate developer.
Throughout the years, McLeod has supported Campbell University with his time and resources, serving as a member of Presidential Board and Board of Trustees, working on capital campaigns and supporting students through the establishment of academic scholarships. In 1997, he was the Campbell UniversityAlumni Service Award recipient. The McLeod Athletic Training Facility is named in his honor.
As a citizen of the community, he has been equally invested, serving as past president of the Fuquay-Varina Junior Chamber of Commerce, chairman of the Town Planning and Zoning Board, past president of the Lions Club and as a member of the Philomathean Literary Society. McLeod is also an active member of his church Fuquay-Varina United Methodist, serving as chairman of the Administrative Board, Board of Trustees and theFinance Committee.
He is married to the former Virginia Cozort. They have two sons and five grandchildren.
Photo Copy: Bernard McLeod receives the J.A. Campbell award from Campbell University President Jerry M. Wallace at winter graduation exercises on Saturday, Dec. 18. (Photo by Bennett Scarborough)