On Sept. 19, 2014, the Aggie family lost an employee, a mentor, and a dear friend.

Deborah McCollum played a crucial role in the department of Housing and Residence life, under the Office of Student Affairs at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University for 18 years.

McCollum could be summed up as joyous soul who touched the lives of thousands. She was a true icon in the department of Housing and Residence life.  

Frederick Stocks, assistant director of housing facilities summed Deborah McCollum in four words: “Salt of the earth.”

“McCollum was the type of person you could count on to tell the truth whether it hurt you or not,” said Stocks.

At an early age, McCollum thought the best way to contribute to society was to start off in the church and get a quality education.

Cassandra Bradley, assistant director of residence life described McCollum as an educator, with a great work ethic: “She stressed education, and was one of the hardest working people this University has ever seen.”

McCollum, a devoted Christian, was a longstanding member of The Church of Jesus Christ. McCollum attended church faithfully. She used church as another outlet to help others.

Greensboro Housing Authority was the beginning of McCollum’s longevity in the housing business. McCollum made it her duty to house those who were in need.

After McCollum’s tenure at the Greensboro Housing Authority, she decided to seek employment at N.C. A&T.

“Ms. Deborah was the backbone for her family, and the glue that kept her co-workers together,” said Elizabeth Cooper, hall director for Richmond &

McCain residence halls.

Cooper was the first person who McCollum worked with at N.C. A&T. “She had no brakes; she spoke her mind, with a firm belief to do right to who is due,” said Cooper.

Truly a pioneer for education, conduct, and work ethic.

The funeral was held on Friday, Sept. 26 at New Light Missionary Baptist Church.

We celebrate the life of a jubilant Aggie.

—Email Dominique  at [email protected] and follow us on Twitter @theatregister

• Dominique Moody, Register Reporter