Hervey Ross ’50, L.H.D. ’07, was a proud Clark alumnus, a successful business executive, an Army veteran, and a man who recognized the value of the spoken word to inform, persuade, and win the day.

Ross, who passed away on January 26, also was a generous benefactor of Clark University, most visibly as sponsor, since 2005, of the Hervey Ross Oratorical Contest. The annual competition gives students an opportunity to stand before an audience and describe the joys and challenges of conducting research projects in a variety of study areas.

“Clark has lost a valued member of our community,” President David Angel said. “Hervey Ross’ passion for public speaking inspired our students, and his Oratorical Contest was the perfect expression of his devotion to Clark.”

Whenever possible, Ross made the trip from his home in Atlanta to attend the contest, often introducing the event by stressing the importance of communicating with purpose in every avenue of life. He offered encouragement and expressed admiration for the students’ efforts, both as researchers and presenters.

Photo courtesy of Worcester Academy