Student Affairs Hall of Fame Honors Service to UA

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The Student Affairs Hall of Fame inaugural induction ceremony was held recently at The University of Alabama with three distinguished individuals recognized for their commitment to the University.

Inducted into the UA Student Affairs Warner O. Moore Hall of Fame were Dr. John L. Blackburn, Sarah Healy Fenton and Melford E. Espey Jr.

Dr. John L. Blackburn (1924-2009) – Blackburn was recruited to the University in 1956 as assistant dean of men, and among the benchmarks of his career at the Capstone was the central role he played in the peaceful desegregation of the University. His commitment to students and to the profession of student affairs administration continues to be an inspiration to others.UA’s Blackburn Institute, a nationally acclaimed leadership program named in his honor, has become a thriving global network of leaders with shared commitment to helping the state achieve its full potential. Blackburn mentored each student fellow in the Institute toward new levels of excellence.

Sarah Healy Fenton (1908-1999) – Fenton, known at UA as “Dean Healy,” came to campus in 1954 in the position of dean of women. She heroically helped guide the University through the period from 1956-1958. Dean Healy and others worked diligently through this time to chart the path toward successful integration.While the integration of the University was Dean Healy’s most important contribution, she also developed a seamless web where all women had a sense of belonging, a sense of place and the knowledge that someone cared.The students knew her as a problem-solver and ready listener, and they were thankful for the kindness and understanding she showed them.

Melford E. Espey Jr.(1941-2010) – Espey served in critical leadership positions at UA from 1970 until his retirement in 1996, including as director of the Ferguson Center, campus activities, student life and University Recreation, and as assistant to the vice president for student affairs. Among his many contributions to the University, Espey designed the new student union, the Ferguson Center, a facility that continues to serve as the heart of campus life. He served as longtime faculty secretary of Omicron Delta Kappa honor society and was an effective advocate for the admission of women to ODK. He is also remembered for serving as Alabama’s first elephant mascot.

In 1992, the Student Affairs Hall of Fame was dedicated in memory of Dr. Warner O. “Lanny” Moore for his lasting contributions to student life at UA. Moore was a professor of history and beloved director of Honors Day.In addition to his academic duties, Moore served as associate director of Student Services and was adviser to Alpha Lambda Delta honorary for many years.