Many people attended the dedication of Brown Hall, including, from left, Robin Bordner, Jonathan Bordner, Simon Bordner, Marsha Bordner, and Karen Coffin. (Submitted photo)

BY SHERI TRUSTY

CATAWBA ISLAND – The late Dr. Harold Brown of Catawba Island could have let anger define his life. He grew up in an era when the color of his skin defined his worth in the eyes of many, and yet he looked in the mirror and saw a man who could reach his dreams. During World War II, he developed the skills to become a fighter pilot, but black aviators were assigned to escort fighter planes instead. He and the other Tuskegee Airmen served with such excellence that they became the most trusted escorts above enemy lands. Brown became an educator when African Americans lacked opportunities and helped transform community college education in Ohio.

Brown could have chosen anger, but he chose to dream, he chose to work hard, he chose to be bravely dedicated, and he chose to serve. On Sept. 18, Brown’s legacy of impact on the nation, on the state, and, most specifically, on Columbus State Community College, was honored at the dedication of Brown Hall at Columbus State.

Dr. Marsha Bordner holds a plaque honored her late husband, Dr. Harold Brown, during the dedication of Brown Hall. Behind her, to the left, is friend and musician, Michael Shirtz, and to the right is Columbus State President David T. Harrison. (Photo by Jonathan Bordner)

Brown joined the faculty of Columbus State as an instructor in 1965, and he retired in 1986 as the Vice President for Academic Affairs. During his tenure, he helped transform the technical school into a community college and impacted educational opportunities across Ohio.

“By the time Dr. Brown retired in 1986, he had helped guide the institution through some of its most important developmental years,” said Columbus State President David. T. Harrison.

Harrison described Brown Hall as “the hub of student support” and “the one place students are going to go to for whatever help they need.” The building is a fitting tribute to Brown, who was affectionately adored by schoolchildren, dedicated to the success of college students, and committed to living a life that changed lives.

“It is going to help thousands of students for decades to come,” Harrison said.

Many people attended the Brown Hall dedication, including Brown’s widow, Dr. Marsha Bordner; his daughter, Karen Jackson; his stepson, Jonathan Bordner; his grandson, Simon Bordner; many friends; and former colleagues and students.

Dr. Harold Brown’s daughter, Karen Jackson, speaks during the dedication of Brown Hall. (Photo by Jonathan Bordner)

“It was really just lovely,” Marsha said. “There was a wonderful cross-section of people coming together to honor him. I was mingling among people who dearly loved Harold.”

Provost Emeritus of Columbus State, Dr. Mike Snider, said there was no one “more deserving than Harold”…to have…“his name placed on this building.”

“We promise to carry his commitment to academic excellence, equity, and deep humanity forward,” Snider said.

Brown could have chosen anger, defeat, or indifference. Instead, his life was defined by a resolve that breathed life and hope into thousands of people. Throughout his life, Brown succeeded despite personal and professional barriers, and today, because of him, thousands of students of all colors walk through educational open doors and step into a world of endless opportunity.

“To know my father was to understand the power of purpose,” Jackson said.