Dr. William Ross Story is the recipient of the 2011 Delta State University Alumni Association Legacy Award. The award is presented annually to an alumnus who has made an institutional changing impact on the university. Story will be honored during the Alumni Awards and Gala Dinner on Friday, November 4, at 7 p.m. in the Walter Sillers Coliseum as part of Delta State’s 2011 Homecoming festivities.
A native of Cleveland, Story graduated from East Side High School in 1965 and earned an undergraduate degree in agricultural education from Alcorn State University. He earned a master of education in guidance counseling in 1971, and an educational specialist degree in guidance counseling in 1974, both from Delta State. After beginning his educational career as a public school teacher and counselor in Leland and Shelby, he joined Delta State in 1977, serving in various posts while earning a doctorate in counselor education from Mississippi State University in 1981. Kent Wyatt, EdD, former president of Delta State, appointed him dean of continuing education. He retired in 2002 as dean of counseling and developmental studies.
During his career at Delta State, Story served as president of the Mississippi Counseling Association. He was selected Delta State’s Outstanding Black Alumnus in 2000. He was a charter member of Omicron Psi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Inc. at Delta State, and a lifetime member of Alpha Phi Alpha Inc. He was involved with the Mississippi Proprietary Colleges and Schools Board and avidly supported the United Way of Bolivar County.
In retirement, Story enjoys reading, mentoring adults, traveling and spending time with his wife of 40 years, the former Katherine Miller, and their three grown children—Krishna Rochelle Murriel, Kimberly Story Manning and William Ross Story II—and doting on their three young grandchildren—Donovan, 7, Kelsi, 5, and infant Trey, also known as William Ross Story III.
