Sterling College: When did you graduate from Sterling College?
Walter "Wilso" Davis: 1951
SC: What courses of study did you Major(s)/Minor(s) in?
Davis: It was Education with an emphasis in history.
SC: What activities were you involved in while on campus?
Davis: Mainly football, but I was also involved in student government and was the president of the senior class. I also worked as a writer for the Sterling Stir newspaper.
SC: What residence hall did you live in?
Davis: There were no residence halls back then – just for the ladies. Men found lodging in town. I lived with Mrs. W.B. Norris. I remember it was close to town and within walking distance of where we got our laundry done.
SC: What are you doing now?
Davis: Well, I’m retired. I have three published books, and I just finished writing a book about my marriage of 56 years for my children (although this won’t be published). Mainly I’m involved in church activities and traveling. We just visited Sterling last summer as well as Nova Scotia, various states, and I recently went to my 65th high school reunion.
SC: Do you have children? What are their names? Did they go to Sterling College?
Davis: Douglas Wayne (Doug) went to Sterling College for one year. He lettered in football then transferred to Ottawa University. He got a lawyers degree and lives in Virginia.
Patricia didn’t attend Sterling and is the mother of 4 children. She taught at prep school in Huston [VERIFY THIS LOCATION] and is now retired only 14 miles away from us.
SC: Where do you live?
Davis: Maggie Valley, NC
SC: How did your experience and time at Sterling College shape you?
Davis: I think it had a life changing impact. I think I learned a great deal about Christian mercy and grace from one of my professors, Dr. Eunice McGill, who encouraged me to finish out my senior year. President McCreery also was a huge encouragement to me.
SC: What did you enjoy or appreciate most about Sterling College?
Davis: The friendships of my fellow students I graduated with. I know a great number of them and they’re all my friends. I feel like it’s family when I go back for my reunions. I was back for my 60th reunion although there were only about 15 people there.
SC: Do you have any children or relatives who attend or work at the College now?
Davis: No, but I appreciate what the faculty has always done – they are great with compassionate hearts and are eager to help any way they can.
SC: How are you remaining involved on the campus?
Davis: [I am] Not really involved. I have a few friends who keep me up to date, but I don’t know much first hand. I do enjoy coming to the Homecoming theatre shows every 5 years or so.
SC: Do you mind if we include an email address so people can get a hold of you?
Davis: walterwd7@gmail.com
