NCCU Alumni Named To National Hall Of Fame
Two North Carolina Central University (NCCU) alumni have been named inductees to the 2016 National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame.
U.S. Rep. G.K. Butterfield and Rev. William Barber are among 10 honorees chosen for their achievements and support of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The induction ceremony took place in Atlanta on Sept. 23rd.
Butterfield, a long time advocate for affordable health care, education and voter rights serves as North Carolina’s 1st District Representative. He was elected to serve in the role after a special election in 2004. Prior to his election, Butterfield was selected as North Carolina resident superior court judge where he presided over civil and criminal court for 46 counties of North Carolina. He was later appointed by the governor to serve two years on the North Carolina Supreme Court.
Butterfield obtained a bachelor’s degree in political science and sociology from NCCU and also a law degree from the School of Law. After earning his law degree, Butterfield began his law practice, in which he is best known for advocating voting rights that resulted in the election of black officials throughout eastern North Carolina.
Currently, Butterfield serves as chief deputy whip of the House Democratic Caucus and chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. He also serves as a member of the subcommittees of Communications and Technology, and Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade.
Barber, a voting rights activist, currently serves as president of the North Carolina chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). He also serves as chair of the NAACP’S Legislative Political Action Committee of organization’s national board.
Barber is credited with establishing the multi-racial, multi-generational movement Moral Monday. His accomplishments also consist of literary works including his book entitled, “Preaching Through Unexpected Pain.”
Previously, he served as executive director of North Carolina’s Human Relations Commission. Barber has also served as an adjunct instructor at North Carolina Wesleyan, North Carolina Central University and Duke University.
Barber has served as pastor of Greenleaf Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Goldsboro, North Carolina for over 20 years. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from North Carolina Central University and a master’s of divinity degree from Duke University. He also holds a doctorate in public policy and pastoral care from Drew University.