Dear Friends:
It is fitting that this issue of Fe, featuring fireworks and the American Flag in celebration of Independence Day, is dedicated to our late dear friend and colleague, Margaret Clark, who was an enthusiastic and active participant in the political process of this great country. She particularly loved this holiday.
On the road to Ferrum, countless numbers of young people were guided by Margaret, who paved the path for some, smoothed the course for others, charted the journey for a few, and even financed the trip for a lone student or two. For more than forty years, Margaret made Ferrum a distinctive and welcoming destination for our students.
Margaret embodied the College’s motto, "Not Self, But Others," as fully as anyone who has served at Ferrum. She committed her life to student success, and she worked tirelessly and gladly to help students achieve their goals and dreams. Although she served in several roles, she will always be integrally connected to alumni as Ferrum’s long-time Registrar. Whether students approached their Ferrum journey as a wild adventure or a leisurely Sunday drive, Margaret welcomed all with equal hospitality, warmth, and care.
While Margaret earned respect for her selfless service to students, she also set a standard among the College’s faculty and staff, earning widespread regard as the longest serving staff member in Ferrum’s history. Her extraordinary dedication to Ferrum has lead the College to honor her in an exceptional way: In August, the College will open the new Margaret M. Clark Hall, named in her memory. Situated on a hillside on the west side of campus, facing Route 40, this building would have been the first that Margaret spotted on her daily commute to Ferrum. This beautiful new residence hall will now welcome students and friends who are traveling west on 40 to our campus.
Margaret Clark expected no acclaim for her service, but she would have been humbled by the outpouring of love and tributes she has received. In response to the many requests by Margaret's friends and loved ones, the College has developed specific and lasting tributes to her through naming opportunities. In the newsletter below, you can learn more about the ways people are celebrating Margaret's life and service to others.
As her final wish, Margaret asked to have her ashes spread on the route from her home in Patrick County to her "home" at Ferrum, a route she traveled daily for more than 40 years. Now on the road to Ferrum, students will find a welcoming home in Margaret M. Clark Hall.
Sincerely yours,
Jennifer L. Braaten
President
Jennifer L. Braaten
President
Remembering Our Dear Friend
Margaret Morrison Clark '85
We announce with great sadness the recent passing of a dear colleague and friend, Margaret Morrison Clark ’85. Margaret died on Tuesday, June 3 at the age of 65 after a brief illness. She is survived by her husband,Tobe Clark, and their son, Chris. Margaret was a dedicated Ferrum employee for 44 years. During most of those years, she served as the College’s Registrar, where she made a profound impact on the lives of countless Ferrum students. Many alumni have sent us letters of condolences with fond memories and offers of support. Through their submissions, you can read about Margaret’s personal impact upon generations of Ferrum students. She will long be remembered by them. We invite you to read through these memories and submit your own.
Margaret Clark receives key to Ferrum College
Margaret became employed at Ferrum College in September 1963 when she went to work for Sidney Sandridge, Dean of the College. She and Tobe, who was also working at Ferrum, were married that December in Schoolfield Chapel. The Clarks spent the early years of their marriage traveling to athletic functions and college events. Attendance at these events became a lifelong tradition for them. In 1965, Margaret accepted the position of assistant registrar and worked in that capacity for the next 17 years. She was promoted to registrar in 1982 and remained there until her retirement.
Known as "Mama Margaret" to scores of Ferrum students, she always felt a strong responsibility to "be there for students" in the way in which she would like to have someone help her own child. In a recent article in the Ferrum Magazine, Carthan Currin '84 recalled his appreciation for Margaret and her dedication to students: "If there is someone who has worked for Ferrum that has lived our motto of 'Not Self, but Others,' she is that person. To me and so many others, she made a key difference in our lives while at Ferrum and beyond. She served as a loyal friend and for me was also a surrogate mother. Ferrum has been blessed with so many special people and she deserves to be at the top of that list."Margaret and Tobe welcomed their son, Chris Clark '94, into their family in 1972. When Chris was three, Margaret enrolled at Ferrum and, over the next ten years, used her vacation time to take additional classes. In 1985, she completed the requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree and joined the ranks of the students she helped guide down the path to becoming Ferrum alumni. Chris would share the same desire for the Ferrum experience as his parents, and by 1994, the Clark family had all walked Ferrum’s commencement stage.
Margaret Clark receives her Bachelor of Science degree from Ferrum College in 1985
Margaret always viewed her Ferrum relationships as an extension of her own family and never lost her deep love for and excitement about the College. From spring blooms to the winter snows, she loved everything about Ferrum College.
Margaret was a dedicated Ferrum employee, a Distinguished Alumni Award recipient, a mentor, a source of strength, and most importantly, a friend and advocate to students, faculty, staff and parents. Margaret Clark made a profound impact upon the lives of generations of Ferrum students and she has a permanent place in our hearts.
Newest Residence Hall to be Named in Honor of Margaret Clark
Ferrum College has announced plans to name its newest residence hall in memory of a dear friend and former employee, Margaret Morrison Clark. “Margaret M. Clark Hall” will be ready for students to move in for the fall 2008 semester. The building will officially be dedicated in a special ceremony in early November.Construction on the three-story residence hall began in late March. The building, which is located on the west side of campus, will house 120 students, two to a room, and will help accommodate the continuing growth in enrollment that the college has been experiencing over the last several years. Mod-U-Kraf Homes of Rocky Mount constructed most of the all-brick structure off-site, while Scott Manufacturing, Rocky Mount Supply, Blackwater Door & Millwork, and MW Manufacturers Inc. are just a few of the other local companies that were involved in the project. The use of local companies is providing a boost to the economy in not only the Franklin County area, but surrounding regions as well. Completion of the project is expected before the beginning of the fall 2008 semester.
The decision to name this new residence hall in memory of Margaret Clark was an easy one to make, since Margaret was Ferrum’s longest-serving staff employee. The College and our students were second only to her own family in Margaret’s love and devotion. Margaret had a positive impact on every Ferrum student, spanning over forty years. This residence hall allows her legacy to live on for future generations of Ferrum students.”
A message from the Development Office
Margaret Clark ’85 will forever be at the heart of the Ferrum experience for those who were blessed to have known her. The Ferrum community is privileged to recognize her by naming our newest residence hall in her memory. Margaret had a fundamental understanding and deep appreciation for Ferrum’s mission to offer an exceptional education in an environment where service to others is paramount and personal values are of the utmost importance. “Not Self, But Others” was the motto, mantra, and motivation of Margaret Clark.During her lifetime, Margaret Clark never sought recognition or approbation for her unselfish devotion to the students of Ferrum College. Indeed, she would no doubt have been astonished to know that Ferrum’s newest residence hall will be named in her memory. She truly was the embodiment of the Ferrum motto, "Not Self, But Others," and set a standard to which we can all aspire. With the blessing of Tobe Clark, Margaret's husband, and her son, Chris, it is our distinct pleasure to announce this most public and enduring of tributes. In the first week of November, Margaret’s life and work will be recognized through the dedication of Margaret M. Clark Hall.
Many of you who knew and loved Margaret have either already given gifts in her memory or have asked how you can donate. Because of the many requests, Ferrum College has prepared the following list for those who would like to honor Margaret's legacy. By providing one of the gift amounts listed below you can reserve the opportunity to name your gift in the manner that you designate.
| Naming Opportunity | Gift Amount |
|---|---|
| Name recognized | $50 |
| Engraved brick | $100 |
| Tree planted in front of the hall | $250 |
| Bench | $1,000 |
| Lamp post | $1,250 |
Click here to make your donation online.
For larger naming opportunities or more information about donating, please don't hesitate to contact the Development Office at (540) 365-4221. You can also visit the Development page.
Remembering Margaret: The Ferrum Family Offers Love, Prayers, and Support
You can share your story with the Ferrum community - use the Share your story form to submit yours and we'll post it along with these submissions from friends and alumni.
I was always fond of Mrs. Clark. She was always the voice of calm in the storm up there in the Registrar’s office. I recall her being my substitute advisor until I declared a major. Margaret Clark personified excellence in customer service, a calming presence, resourcefulness, and dedication to her profession in her role with the Ferrum Family. We have truly lost a great member of the Ferrum family. Best regards to Tobe and Chris, this is truly a significant loss to us all. - John '99
I met Margaret and Tobe Clark in the summer of 1966, when I became a student and employee at Ferrum College right out of high school. Over the years, I shared so many memories with this family, including the birth of Chris.
Tobe and Chris: I so miss Margaret not being around. Tobe, I want to thank you for the many years that I got to ride to work with you and Margaret. These were fun times and I will never forget them. Thank you for the love and friendship. You are great.
Margaret was the most organized, helpful and loving person. She helped me so much personally and professionally. I will never forget her. My heart hurts when I think of how much I miss her, but I know that no matter how I feel, you guys are hurting more.
Chris, you are a fine young man. You were raised well, I know. Remember that you have a lot of friends at Ferrum, not only because of your personality (which is a good combination of both your parents, by the way) but because of the love we have for your parents. Please do not hesitate to contact any of us with your needs. - Carolyn, '93
I am deeply saddened to hear the passing of Ms. Margaret Clark. I can remember coming to Ferrum, the first time ever leaving home and scared. When I first met Ms. Clark, I can remember the big smile that she gave me and it reminded me of being home and I thought to myself, this place is going to be OK. It turned out to be more than OK and my time at Ferrum provided some of the fondest memories in my mind. She was a sweet, sweet lady and to many of us was our mom away from home. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and I feel so blessed for my time at Ferrum to have had her share her kindness with me. - Russell '99
Margaret was the most selfless person I have ever known! She spent her entire life serving other people. I have many fond memories of her and her family. Margaret and I were pregnant at the same time and our sons, Chris and Sam, were students at Ferrum at the same time. I worked many years at Ferrum with Margaret and Tobe, and loved them like family. My heart goes out to Chris and Tobe as well as the nieces who have followed Margaret’s example of "Not Self, But Others." - Friend
Margaret was someone I admired both for her dedication to the students and to the college itself. She was taking classes to earn her degree while I was there, and it was always a reminder that one is never finished learning. I knew that I was not just a generic student to her as she always addressed me by name, in spite of her busy schedule, and it made Ferrum feel that much more like one big giant family. It would not have surprised me if she had been able to call me by name even these 25 years later! -Katherine, '83
What a shock it was to receive the news of Margaret's passing. Margaret was the true definition of a friend. She always had a smile on her face and her genuine How are you doing today" was her way of keeping up with her fellow classmates and co-workers on campus. Margaret was not only a true friend and fellow classmate; she was a "second mother" for those of us who needed someone to talk to.
I'll never forget graduation when she cut in between my parents and gave me a big bear hug before I could even introduce her. The look on my mom's face was priceless and one I'll never forget! I always made a point to look for her at Folklife or homecoming. If I didn't run into her, I made sure I put a note under her office door. She will be missed by all. My prayers are with Tobe and Chris. - Hugh '83
This is sad news indeed. I fondly remember Margaret and Tobe during my years at Ferrum. She always had a smile, and her devotion to the College, was always evident. I will always remember that she knew who I was, even though one on one contact was limited.I have visited the campus several times over the last 6 years, and remember on one occasion during that time having a Tyler dog at 77 Restaurant, and seeing Margaret and Tobe there. They remembered me after over 20 years!
Ferrum College has been blessed to have a person like Margaret in its service for so long. - Allen '82
Margaret was a very dear lady, and a good friend of mine while I was in school back in the 80's. I am very saddened to hear of her passing. My thoughts and condolences to the whole Ferrum community. - Mike '85
Without the guidance of Mrs. Clark, I would have been lost at Ferrum. She made sure that I and many others were where they needed to be. She will be missed, but never forgotten by the many lives she helped/touched. My thoughts and prayers go out to you. - Jack '90
To my friends at Ferrum College,I am deeply saddened by Mrs. Clark's passing. She made it possible for me to attend Ferrum and even found me off campus housing to allow me a peaceful place to study. I was about to leave college and go home when Mrs. Clark "found a way to make me successful" at Ferrum College. I will never forget her kindness and warmth to a homesick kid who was poorly prepared for college. After three years at Ferrum, I graduated and went on to live and work in Patrick County. Her legacy at Ferrum College is and always will be without equal. - Ed '86
Margaret went to school with me and graduated in '85 when I completed my BS in Environmental Science. She and I exchanged anecdotes about our children and kept up with each others lives periodically. I will greatly miss knowing she is home at Ferrum where I spent some of the best years of my life. - Friend
I too am an alumna of the class of '85 and knew Margaret. Though I did not know her well, I had some classes with her. She always had a smile on her face and was easy to talk to, a very sweet lady indeed! I was sad to find out that she has passed. She was a big part of Ferrum, always was and always will be. - Corrine '85
I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Margaret's family and friends. I attended Ferrum from 1977-81 and Margaret was a big part of my positive college experience. She was always friendly and helpful, and always seemed to have a smile on her face. I was a member of the singing group "New Ferrum Singers," a small ensemble. We made our own performance costumes. Well, some folks made theirs. I was lucky enough to be referred to Margaret during my first year in Singers, and she decked me out for the remainder of my time in the group. Margaret's quiet and gentle way will always be one of my fondest memories of Ferrum. As I'm sure many, many people will be saying, Margaret epitomized our motto of "Not Self, But Others".
Again, my deepest sympathies to Margaret's family. - Lisa '81
I am very sorry to hear about Margaret's passing. I still remember my first time working with her! She is a great gal and I hope her family will get through this and have great memories of this fine woman. - David, '97
Margaret always felt she was blessed to have been part of Ferrum. In truth, it was the College, especially the students who were the fortunate ones. She was the 'mom' away from home; the one who loved unconditionally, who pushed her 'children' to succeed, who never tired of answering questions, and who cheered the loudest when a student's goal was achieved. I will forever remember her radiant smile and warm hugs. Margaret epitomized the motto "Not Self, But Others." - Robin '84
Margaret Clark personified all that is good about Ferrum; those attributes that make it more than a college, but a part of life, with lessons in life. That's what Margaret conveyed. To say "not self, but others," seems so overly redundent, but few phrases capture Margaret more than that. While Presidents, Deans and Professors may come, serve and contribute, but then depart, Margaret was the one "constant" that you could depend on, "to be there."
She'll always be there. Few spots on earth will carry a spirit like the campus of Ferrum College will carry the spirit of Margaret Clark.
After the loss of a loved one, a friend gave me a book on handling such occasions. It said, "we were lucky to have known them at all." Indeed. - Glynn Loope '86
Mrs. Clark was a wonderful person. She was always willing to help no matter how many times I showed up at her office concerned about my future she was always willing to guide me in the right direction. She will be missed but never forgotten. - Ann Leone '90
Margaret was like a mother to me at Ferrum. She helped me in so many ways, but most importantly she treated me like I was one of her own. When I moved to Patrick County after graduation she kept in touch with me and when I needed transcripts for an application to work for a newspaper in Saudi Arabia, she brought them to my home that very night. When I came home, I brought her back a silk Arab head scarf. It was a blessing to have someone who embodied the Ferrum spirit like Margaret did and touched so many lives. Now her spirit and example will live on in all of us who remember her and how she made Ferrum feel like home. God bless the Clark family. - Mike Dunavant '93
What a wonderful tribute to Mrs. Clark and, I am crying now as I read everyone's memories of her. She truly was a great person, and had a huge impact on me during my time at Ferrum. I worked in the office with her and she was so nice, it never seemed like "work" being there. She was genuine in her concern, and always wanted to know how things were going and took an interest in every student. We had many talks, especially during my Freshman Year, and she was never shy with her hugs or funny stories she had to tell!
Thank you for sharing everyone's memories and posting pictures of her over the years. They made me cry but also smile at seeing her again. Tobe and Chris, you are both in my thoughts and prayers. - Christa (Bellace) Moss '93
Margaret Clark represented a 'mother' away from home to many students over the years. I know she was to me and I am deeply sadden by her sudden illness and death. She was a very kind-spirited person who helped in many ways. I remember her gentle advise and guidance as well as all the help she provided me during my time at Ferrum. My sympathies to her husband, son, and family. - Lynn '92
Mrs. Clark was a kind hearted woman who searched me out when my roommate had been in a car accident just to say she cared about me and I needed to come back to school. It was that sense of concern and kindness that made her special to me as student. - Martha Haley-Bowling Class of 1990
On June 3rd Ferrum College truly lost an icon and mother figure! Mrs.
Clark was truly an inspiration to endless amount of Ferrum College students,
her love and passion for making our lives better was apparent everyday.
There was no question she could not answer; she was creative, loving,
fun, and a humble woman who simply made Ferrum College a better place.
On behalf of the student body I send our deepest regards to her family.
For those of us who were blessed to meet Momma Clark, we are forever grateful.
To those who never had that chance, we can be reassured that those will
feel her spirit and passion across our amazing campus. As we move on into
better days let us join together and honor her life by practicing and
demonstrating the civility and Ferrum pride that Mrs. Clark demonstrated
everyday. - God Bless, Timothy W. Shipe, Student Government President
Rats,
That's pretty lousy news. Ms. Clark was a stand up lady and a good person.
We never thought of her as being the registrar. We just thought of her
as a friend.
We'll miss you, no doubt about that. - Bert and Gail
Margaret was definitely one of the people I will always remember from Ferrum. She was always there for the students and had an enthusiasm unmatched to make sure each student's Ferrum experience was the best it could be. I always remember her smile and joy she had each day being on campus. Past students and staff will miss her and future students will never get the joy of knowing her as part of their campus experience. - Floyd Boone '90
A simple telephone call changed the fate of my history. One day I am
walking up the walk towards the house thinking about my life; -literally,
will I go to college, how will that occur, when my sister tells me, “Ferrum
College called and if you still want to attend, send them $100.00 to hold
your spot.” Still in disbelief, I ran into the house, located my paperwork,
wrote a check from my summer earnings, ran up the street to mail it, and
then back to the house to call Ferrum. Margaret was there, she explained
everything and long story short I was the first person from my family
to graduate from college.
Margaret Clark made that happen for countless of others with just a simple
telephone call. She always seemed to know- when to be there. -
Athena McCoy '86
As an International Student at Ferrum College, Mrs. Margaret Clark gave me her full kind warm family support from her heart during my stay at Ferrum. Mrs. Clark made a very clear mark during my education life at Ferrum. A great lady that will always be remembered. - Malek ElHussamy '94
I attended Ferrum during the late 80s as a single mother of two young
daughters. I worked in the Registrar's office with Margaret during two
summers. I LOVED Margaret! She was my boss, but more importantly, she
was my friend! She was smart, levelheaded, competent, trustworthy, dependable
and loyal. She was a shining example of what we should all strive to be!
To this day, when I think of her, I smile. Margaret was a good, good woman.
I feel happy and grateful that she shared moments of her life with me.
- Shelia Hodge Menard '90
