Rosie Bingham's self-proclaimed motto, "Leaving it better than I found it" has led her to yet another honorable accomplishment.
The University of Memphis is awarding Bingham, vice president of student affairs, with the Authur S. Holmon Lifetime Achievement Award in celebration of Black History Month.
The Black Student Association and the Office of Multicultural Affairs will host the ceremony Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Bingham started her career with The U of M in 1985 when she was hired as director for the Center for Student Development. She then became assistant vice president for student affairs and student development in 1993. Bingham has been The University's vice president of student affairs since 2003.
In Bingham's 27 years at The University, she has campaigned for more scholarships and successfully lobbied for accessibility funds.
"I feel very humbled by this honor and keep finding myself asking ‘Why are they giving this to me?' But I'm glad they are. People who have just been outstanding haven't gotten it. I just come to work each day and try to do the best I can," Bingham said.
The U of M has been honoring African Americans since 1991.
"In some aspect in their lives the honorees are an example. It doesn't matter the starting point — it's where you end up. They succeed against all odds, no matter what is stacked against them," said Linda Hall, coordinator of multicultural affairs.
This criterion was the driving force behind the selection of Bingham by the students, faculty and staff of The U of M, Hall said.
The ceremony will kick off Black History Month events at The U of M under the theme of "Black Women in American Culture in History."
"Dr. Bingham has so many great qualities. She is a leader in all aspects and a role model to many," said Caitlin Fisher, co-chair of Black History Month.
In addition to her campus work, Bingham also serves the Memphis community as Chair of the Women's Foundation for a Great Memphis and a current board member for Leadership Academy and Baptist Women's Hospital.
Nationally, Bingham has served on the Board of Directors for the American Psychological Association, Council of Representatives, the Good Governance and the National Multicultural Conference and Summit.
"I believe my job is to be an advocate for students. I have to look out for their needs," Bingham said.
She said one of her biggest goals for The U of M is to focus on student leadership and diversity.
"I believe students should learn from every encounter at The University. I want students to succeed at The University and I know they can," Bingham said.
