North Carolina lawmakers honor Elon University

With President Emeritus J. Earl Danieley in attendance, the North Carolina Senate recognized Elon University on July 2, 2014, in a special statement commending the school for its accomplishments and contributions to the world.

North Carolina state senators delivered a standing ovation Wednesday afternoon to J. Earl Danieley ’46 when Elon University’s president emeritus visited Raleigh for the chamber reading of a special statement honoring the school.

In submitting the statement, Republican Sen. Rick Gunn of Alamance County lauded the university for its national reputation for academic excellence, its student and faculty commitment to local and global service, and its historic 620-acre campus that regularly receives accolades as one of the nation’s most beautiful collegiate environments.

The Senate recognition on July 2, 2014, coincided with the conclusion of Elon University’s 125th anniversary year. The campus community has celebrated its milestone anniversary since last fall with a series special events, exhibitions and Homecoming programs, all of which reflected themes outlined in Gunn’s statement.

“This is a special day and a much-deserved recognition for Elon,” Gunn said shortly before the Senate convened. “The university has meant so much to our community. Having Dr. Danieley here in the Senate chamber to represent Elon is a true privilege.”

One of North Carolina’s most powerful lawmakers – Phil Berger, president pro tempore of the Senate – praised Danieley, too. Berger spoke from the chamber dais about not “relishing” science courses, though he now wishes he could have studied chemistry with Danieley, whom he earlier had greeted in his Senate office suite.

Danieley also met with several lawmakers and greeted about a half dozen Elon alums during his time in the legislative complex, including Republican Sen. Jerry Tillman ’65 of Randolph County; Michael Perdue ’87, the coordinator of the Senate page program; and Leah Burns ’13, an aide to North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory.

He also lunched with Gunn, and legislators Stephen Ross ’73 and Dennis Riddell, both of whom represent Alamance County in the North Carolina House of Representatives.

“To have Elon alumni and leaders of the legislature paying attention to the university’s anniversary, and having so many good things to say about us, that made me happy to have been a part of today,” Danieley said. “I am grateful for Senator Gunn making arrangements for such a special day for Elon.”