Floyd’s prep school dedicates memorial in his honor

September 24, 2015

By Communications staff, Washington State University

Friends, family and community members gather at the dedication.

Carmento Floyd unveils the plaque honoring her late husband.

Floyd family members pose with Darlington School administrators and Elson Floyd Scholars.

ROME, Ga. – Darlington School on Wednesday named a lakeside area where the national flag is displayed in memory of Elson S. Floyd, the Washington State University president who died in June. Floyd was the first black graduate, in 1974, of the private, college-preparatory day and boarding school in Rome.

A plaque at the site reads:

The first African-American graduate of Darlington School, Dr. Elson S. Floyd was admired and respected by his classmates and faculty. A nationally recognized figure in higher education, he was an educator, lifelong learner, visionary leader, statesman and man of honor.

A lifelong supporter and advocate for Darlington School, Floyd was a former trustee and distinguished alumnus. A scholarship endowed in his honor is awarded annually to minority students who possess strong character and leadership skills.