Delta State University and supporters from the community will gather Oct. 17 at 3:30 p.m. to honor one of the university\u2019s most beloved leaders, Dr. Wayne Blansett, recently retired vice president of Student Affairs.<\/p>\n
To recognize Blansett\u2019s 40 years of dedication to the institution, Delta State will hold a naming dedication to rename New Men\u2019s Residence Hall to Blansett Hall. The ceremony will also include a reception in the lobby following the main event.<\/p>\n
Over the past four decades, Blansett has remained a fixture as one of the most respected leaders at Delta State. Serving the green and white for nearly half of the institution\u2019s existence, Blansett retired at the end of the academic calendar in June of 2015.<\/p>\n
Most recently serving as vice president of Student Affairs \u2014 1993 to 2015 \u2014 Blansett has been a role model and mentor for countless students in Delta State\u2019s storied history. As he put it, his job was to improve the total development of students at the university.<\/p>\n
\u201cI started working at Delta State when I was 23-years-old,\u201d said Blansett in a previous press release. \u201cI\u2019ve had a long and rewarding career, and I will certainly miss the interactions with students, staff and the entire Delta State family.\u201d<\/p>\n
The true leader is also a proud alumnus of Delta State, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1973, Master of Education in Counseling in 1974 and a Doctorate of Education in Professional Studies in 1988.<\/p>\n
Shortly after his graduate studies, Blansett began working for his alma mater as the assistant dean of students from 1975-1980. He then progressed as the director of Student Activities (1980-1984), associate dean of Student Affairs (1984-1990) and dean of Student Affairs (1990-1993).<\/p>\n
Delta State University President William N. LaForge, who has been Blansett\u2019s longtime friend and colleague, said the building dedication is an appropriate way to pay tribute to Blansett\u2019s outstanding service to the university.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo one bleeds \u2018Green and White\u2019 more than Wayne Blansett,\u201d said LaForge. \u201cIt is very difficult to say a professional farewell to someone who has given his entire career to this university and who has had such an enormous and positive impact on thousands of students during his 40 years of service in the student affairs arena.\u201d<\/p>\n