Welton DeShields loves Chowan University. He is a Vietnam War era veteran, where he served as a Military Policeman in Okinawa. When returning home from the war he attended Chowan College, then a two year institution. He received his Special Education teaching degree from East Carolina University and  M.Ed focusing on the hearing impaired from Georgia State University in Atlanta. 

Contributing scholarships is important to DeShields; “I want my money to go to the organizations that helped me. I know what it’s like to be at rock bottom.” He is grateful because he’s done very well for himself and wishes to help students who need assistance with their education.

As a child, DeShields was inspired by his Aunt, who is deaf. At a very young age she taught him the alphabet through the use of his fingers and by the time he entered first grade, he was fluent in sign language.

While earning his masters, DeShields taught handicapped kindergarten students. His classrooms consisted of 12 children in the morning and 12 children in the afternoon with a full time aide. He taught students who had cerebral palsy, and were blind or deaf, all with low IQ’s; basically a child who didn’t fit the norm. He was the first male instructor this elementary school ever had.

According to DeShields his most meaningful work was with prisoners. He was hired by the prison system to teach those struggling with learning to read and doing simple math. After they successfully achieved their goals, they moved on to obtain a GED. Some stayed with DeShields. He noted that one, after learning of his successful GED certification, cried while thanking him. Prisoners usually do not shed tears, but gratitude and a relationship with DeShields meant rehabilitation for a man who did not think it was possible.

DeShields loves sports. One can find him in Suffolk at the YMCA lifting weights and running track. He played tackle football with a group of friends until they began going home with injuries, including broken bones. At 40 years old, not willing to give up, they switched to basketball. Whether he’s running after a football, bouncing a basketball or lifting weights, he always comes home with a smile.

Chowan University is grateful for the heart of Welton DeShields wishing to share his resources with our students.