A LEGACY OF FAITHFUL SERVICE
James Sprunt Community College held a special ceremony on Monday, November 17, to honor the late William E. Craft by dedicating the Nursing Wing of the Hoffler Building in recognition of his legacy of faithful service.
Mr. Craft served on the James Sprunt Community College Board of Trustees for more than three decades, including terms as both Chair and Vice-Chair. He was also an active member of the North Carolina Association of Community College Trustees and the National Association of Community College Trustees, where he represented JSCC at both the state and national levels.
Beyond his service to the college, Mr. Craft was widely respected for his patriotism and community involvement. A U.S. Army Veteran of World War II, he was awarded the Asiatic Campaign Medal with a Battle Star. Following his military service, he earned degrees from East Carolina University and Wake Forest University before practicing law in Kenansville for 52 years. He also served as President of the Duplin County Bar Association and as the attorney for the Town of Kenansville.
Mr. Craft’s dedication to service extended throughout the community. He was active in numerous civic organizations, including the Jaycees, Rotary Club, Tuscarora Boy Scouts Council, Red Cross, Lions Club, PTA, and the Duplin County Board of Elections. A devout member of Grove Presbyterian Church, he served as an Elder, Clerk of Session, Sunday School Superintendent, and Adult Sunday School Teacher.
The dedication ceremony was hosted by Ed Emory, Vice-Chair of the JSCC Board of Trustees, who guided the program and introduced each speaker. The invocation was delivered by Richard Whitman, retired JSCC Security Officer. Remarks were shared by Dr. Phadra Murray, Dean of Health Education; Amberly McGowen, Nursing Student; Anita Powers, Chair of the JSCC Board of Trustees; and Susan Craft Quinn, daughter of Mr. Craft.
Following the ceremony, attendees enjoyed JSCC-themed cookies and toured the state-of-the-art nursing facility in the Hoffler Building.
A lifelong advocate for education, Mr. Craft believed deeply in providing Duplin County residents with opportunities to expand their education and gain practical skills through James Sprunt Community College. The college community was honored to recognize his enduring impact and lasting contributions to the institution’s mission and values.
