samuel and zelma staples Gold Samuel and Zelma Staples attended Arkansas AM&N College and were present at many college events where they heard the words of the school’s alma mater: “Alma Mater, we love thee, we love thee dear mother, and all that we have we cast down at thy feet.” The chorus of the school song left a lasting impression on the Staples. Since leaving Pine Bluff, the Staples have logged a million miles between Los Angeles and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff to heed their “dear mother’s” call. The Staples are natives of Camden, Arkansas, where they graduated from Lincoln High School. Samuel graduated in 1963 from Arkansas AM&N College with a bachelor of science degree in art. Then, he moved to Los Angeles, California, where Zelma soon joined him. Samuel found employment in the display department of Bullock Department Store. He quickly established himself in his field and rose to become the manager of the graphic arts department. He later worked for Berkley Photo and GAF Photography, as manager of their graphic arts division. By 1968, Mr. Staples had started his own graphic arts company, Aladdin Enterprises, which he operated until his retirement in 2002. The many banners displayed during homecoming week at UAPB are contributions of his company. Today, Mr. Staples manages the family’s real estate interests. At AM&N College, Zelma pursued a major in health & physical education. After moving to Los Angeles, Zelma continued her
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PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
education at L.A. Southwest College and earned her associate of applied science degree in nursing and later a bachelor of science degree in health care administration. Receiving her registered nurse practitioner certification in 1973, Mrs. Staples retired after 35 years of service at USC Medical Center in 2000. She was an active member of the NAACP, the Council of Black Nurses and is a platinum life member of the UAPB/ AM&N National Alumni Association. Despite her busy schedule, Zelma always finds time to accompany her husband to various alumni functions and provide support to UAPB. Sam has served several terms in various positions at the state, regional, and national level for the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association: president and board member; and vice president /resident, Southern California Alumni. Sam has received numerous awards and citations for his community involvement and service to his alma mater including: the Alumnus of the Year Award – UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association; the Presidential Citation from NAFEO; and the Outstanding Service Award - UAPB/AM&N Southern California Alumni. The Staples are the proud parents of a son, Kenneth and a daughter, Lela Rochon (an actress and star of Waiting to Exhale). Ms. Rochon is married to film director, Antoine Fuqua.