Presbyterian College to name Dee Parker ’56 the 2017 Dum Vivimus Servimus Award recipient

Presbyterian College to name Dee Parker ’56 the 2017 Dum Vivimus Servimus Award recipient

Dee Parker ’56, a native of Laurens, S.C., will be named the recipient of Presbyterian College’s 2017 Dum Vivimus Servimus award. The award is designed to recognize an alumnus or alumna who exemplifies the meaning of the College’s motto, “While we live, we serve.”

Parker graduated from Laurens High School in 1952, and shortly after was admitted to PC where he majored in English and minored in education. While at Presbyterian College, Parker was an active student leader, serving as sports editor on the Blue Stocking staff, business manager for the College annual, treasurer for the Freshman Control Board, treasurer of the Student Christian Association, and a proud member of the Kappa Alpha Order Fraternity. He was also inducted into the Blue Key Honor Society where he served as treasurer.

After leaving the hallowed grounds of PC, Parker’s call to serve was even more evident, serving our nation for two years in the United States Navy. Upon receiving an honorable discharge, Parker pursued graduate studies in the field of vocational rehabilitation at the University of Florida.  After completing graduate school requirements, Parker earned a three-month internship at the Greenville Vocational Rehabilitation office where he was later hired full time after completing his graduate studies. Because of his strong work ethic and passion for service, Parker was later promoted to senior counselor, area supervisor, and then to metro area supervisor with a staff of over 60 employees. A phenomenal leader, Parker has been awarded the Greenville Area Professional of the Year, the South Carolina Boss of the Year, and the Southeast Regional Boss of the Year.

“While we live, we serve,” embodies the heart and mind of this Blue Hose, contributing throughout the years as president of the Greenville Easter Seal Society, president of the Greenville State Employees Association, member of the Board of Directors for Camp Greenville YMCA, football coach for the YMCA Youth Team, Saint Mary’s senior boys basketball coach, Sullivan’s Insurance softball team for 10 years, the Greenville Community Action Council, and the Presbyterian College Alumni Board of Directors. Parker currently serves as chairman of the Annual Straight Street Chris Brown Memorial Golf Tournament. Over the last eleven years, the organization has raised over $120,000 in charitable donations.

Parker has been a member of the Scotsman Club for over 55 years. Upon the completion of the Bailey Memorial Football Stadium, he and his wife, Connie, were among the first to purchase permanent seats in the stadium. Each year, the Parkers are season ticket holders for both football and basketball games.

See all the 2017 Alumni Association Award recipients »