The College of Arts and Sciences wishes to recognize one of its most senior and experienced alumni, Mr. Jesse Pickens. When Mr. Pickens came to campus at the University of South Carolina in 1931, he had little more than the clothes on his back. It was in the midst of the Great Depression, and all he wanted to do was further his education.

“It’s hard to imagine, but the registrar, Mr. John Chase, let me attend the University without one cent in my pocket,” said Mr. Pickens. He was soon working as a chemistry lab assistant. Mr. Pickens graduated with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry in 1935. Mr. Pickens is forever grateful for the kindness USC bestowed upon him. He eventually settled in Houston, raised a family, and retired from a long and successful career at Olin Corporation. He feels that success was due in part to the great education he received.

Early on, Mr. Pickens purchased some corporate stock and waited patiently as it grew in value. In 2010, 75 years after graduating from Carolina, he donated the stock to the University and requested that the proceeds, valued at more than $100,000, go toward undergraduate scholarships in the College of Arts and Sciences.

One of the jobs Mr. Pickens had to perform as a student worker back in the 1930’s was laying bricks down on the Horseshoe. Mr. Pickens came back to campus this spring to see his beloved Carolina, so the tour of the Horseshoe arranged by Arts & Sciences Dean Mary Anne Fitzpatrick was particularly meaningful to him. Mr. Pickens’ admiration for Carolina has deepened over the years. And his generosity will ensure that many future Carolina students will hopefully have some of the same opportunities he had to graduate and become so successful.

For his success and generosity, the College of Arts and Sciences wishes to recognize Mr. Pickens as the Alumni and Friend of the Month for July 2010.

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