Name:  Dr. Vernon Sykes

Name of High School: South High School, Akron, OH

Name of College: Ohio University, BBA 1974, Athens, OH

Name of College: Wright State University, MS 1980 Fairborn, OH

Name of College: Harvard University,MPA 1986  Cambridge, MA

Name of College: The University of Akron, Ph.D. 2001, Akron, OH

Name of your favorite teacher and what made the person special to you:  Michael Fasco, my high school wrestling coach. In addition to athletic skills, Coach Flasco taught me discipline and how to treat all people with respect and dignity whether you win or lose.

What were some of your most enjoyable times in school: When I joined Alpha Phi Alpha, Incorporated at Ohio University was one of the most rewarding experiences and joyous experiences of my life.

Looking back over the years, what advice would you give to your high school self or college self: I would advise a younger Vernon Sykes to get involved with more extra-curricular activities to gain experience and appreciation for a diversity of people and skills.

Why are you supporting Project GRAD Akron’s scholarship fund: I attribute much of my professional success to my academic training. I want to afford other students the same opportunities.

Favorite quote: “Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and inhuman.” Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.