The name Gino D’Andrade is forever linked with “Security” on the campus of Oakwood University, as he served as Chief of Security from 1971 until 2005. The plaque unveiled in the Public Safety Headquarters Building that bears his name proclaims that “he served with professionalism, excellence and distinction, and will remain a part of the Oakwood College legacy.”
Dr. Ruth Faye Davis was a stellar individual, who always stood for what was right no matter what. She loved her students, and taught and trained them to live according to God’s will. She never bent on what she felt God wanted for her and all those who were under her tutelage. She loved deeply and gave generously to many in need. She was a force to reckon with, but whatever she did, she did in love and service to God
Omerror Dawson well may be the trailblazing pioneer responsible for combining the contemporary sounds of the 1970s to the High-Church precision of traditional black Adventism. Ms. Dawson was an influential pianist, organist and arranger who has been praised by Mervyn E. Warren and other Oakwood music legends such as gospel vocalist Shelia McNeil. In fact, without her contributions, Oakwood’s musical legacy and “the Oakwood sound,” a sophisticated fusion of traditional sacred music, gospel and jazz, wouldn’t be what it is.
Minneola Dixon served in several capacities during the 38.42 years she was employed at Oakwood. Under her leadership, the archives grew from one small room to an eight-room resource center. She interviewed pioneers; catalogued periodicals, books and pictures; reorganized the museum; conducted tours; and brought nationwide attention to the campus. Dixon also helped research the history of Dred Scott’s relationship to the campus, and coordinated the efforts to identify and mark the Historic Slave Cemetery. Many will remember her five-minute radio program, “Oakwood Heritage Moments.”
16 [ Oakwood Magazine ]
OU mag_2017 Spring.indd 16
SPRING 2017
3/27/17 9:59 AM