November 24, 2004

A University of Houston senior administrator and a professor emeritus have been recognized for their community service and dedication to their profession.

The Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge, Houston chapter, bestowed its 2004 National Awards on Jerald W. Strickland, interim senior vice president for academic affairs and provost, and Gerson David, professor of social work emeritus.

A non-profit organization, the foundation is dedicated to teaching young people the principles upon which the United States was founded. Its National Award honors organizations and individuals whose positive words or deeds promote the heritage of the United States.

“The Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge supports a worthy cause. I am surprised and grateful to the organization for honoring me with such a distinguished award,” Strickland said.

Nancy Clark, director of donor relations in the Office of Development, nominated Strickland, noting that he is involved with many community projects.

“His definition of his community extends to all countries on this planet. With this global perspective, Dr. Strickland strives daily to serve others, instill values and make ethical choices in life. His life is a strong example of leadership and concern for those less fortunate,” Clark wrote.

Strickland joined in UH 1979 as an associate dean for administration and professor of optometry. Since then, he has held several positions, including College of Optometry dean.

Strickland has served on many professional organizations, including the Texas Optometric Association and the American Public Health Association. He also was president of the Board of Trustees of the World Optometry Foundation, the fundraising arm of the World Council of Optometry. In her nomination, Clarke wrote that “a constant goal of Strickland’s is to eliminate avoidable blindness by the year 2020.”

One of David’s former students, Faith Brock, nominated him. David, who began his tenure at UH in 1968, has volunteered with various community organizations, including Bread for the World, The Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity International.

A native of Burma, the 84-year-old David expressed his gratitude.

“I am highly honored and humble. It was with great humility that I accepted this award,” David said. “I often told my students that humility is the hallmark of our profession. Do not do anything out of selfish ambition.”

Francine Parker
fparker@central.uh.edu