William B. DeLauder, president of Delaware State University, 1987–2003

As president, he took Delaware State from a black institution to a standalone institution for everyone. Before that, Delaware State University never thought about progression and involvement. He put a lot of effort into student activities to inspire participation, and he put a lot of effort into specialized academics and expanding degree programs, especially in science. He came from a science background, so he really supported that. And he was responsible for the physical development of the campus. He was a real leader. He had the respect of elected officials, especially downstate. And he was key in leading us to the Delaware State of today from the Delaware State of yesterday, which was, I think, pretty limited.