Kirkland
Thanks to a new endowed scholarship recently established at Catawba College, the Kirkland surname will be even better remembered in the College's history.
Gordon A. Kirkland, a 1970 alumnus and former Chiefs Club coordinator, and his wife Sandra of Clemmons have established an endowed scholarship at Catawba College in honor of his son, David Kirkland of Salisbury, a 2012 alumnus and director of technical services in Catawba's Conferences Office. The scholarship will be awarded to students based solely on their need.
"David is an incredible son and we are so proud of his accomplishments. So many people from the Catawba community have shared with me that David is thoughtful, reflective, and has it all together," said Gordon Kirkland, Jr. "Sandra and I set up this scholarship to honor him and convey to Catawba College and the community how proud we are of him."
Kirkland and family at his Catawba graduation.
The name Kirkland is a familiar one in Catawba's history. Coach Gordon Kirkland Sr., Gordon Kirkland Jr.'s dad and David Kirkland's grandfather, was a legendary football, baseball and basketball coach at the College. His football teams captured eight Conference championships, including two Tangerine Bowl wins; his baseball teams own nine Conference championships; and his basketball teams won two Conference championships. The lobby of the Abernethy Physical Education Center is named in memory of Gordon A. Kirkland, Sr., as is Kirkland Field in Catawba's Shuford Stadium. Gordon Kirkland Sr.'s daughter, Dr. Martha Kirkland West, is a 1959 alumna and a former member of the College's Teacher Education faculty; she now serves on the College Board of Trustees.
David Kirkland was a student in Catawba's Evening program and took classes to earn a baccalaureate degree in business administration. He graduated in 2012 with honors and a strong sense of satisfaction.
"I was beyond thrilled to hear about this scholarship being created," David Kirkland said. "It is truly a wonderful way for my father and Sandra to not only honor me, but to give back to a place that is so near to his heart and mine as well. I'm proud to know that the Kirkland name will continue to be a part of Catawba's future."
David’s mother is Susan Kirkland of Lancaster, Pa.
