The Chapel at Chowan University was filled with enthusiasm, heartfelt exchanges, and warm embraces as the Rouson family gathered for the annual Reverend George T. and Luvenia B. Rouson Memorial Lecture. Some traveled from outside North Carolina—including a father and son from Atlanta—making the event a true family reunion. The congregation overflowed, with many standing outside, a testament to the lasting impact of the Rouson legacy.

Established in 2003 as a collaboration between the Town of Murfreesboro, Chowan University, and the Murfreesboro Historical Association, the lecture honors individuals who make a meaningful impact on their community.

Dr. Rosemary M. Thomas, President of Chowan University, opened the service with Psalm 118:24:
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

She reflected on the values embodied by the Rouson family: faith, family, and future—faith guiding ministry, family fostering compassion, and the future ensuring education. She reminded attendees, “We are here to celebrate a legacy, share memories, and create new ones.”

Murfreesboro Mayor Hal Thomas introduced Mayor Pro Tem Berna L. Stephens, who presented awards to community members exemplifying the Rouson spirit.

Captain Derek A. Burke – Futrell/Ruffin Community Service Award

Captain Derek A. Burke, of the Murfreesboro Police Department, was recognized for his decades of service. A former Military Police Officer in the U.S. Air Force, he later worked in law enforcement with the Virginia Department of Corrections, Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, and Chowan University Campus Police.

Beyond his professional roles, Captain Burke made a lasting impact on the community, volunteering with the Murfreesboro Recreation Department and managing the youth basketball program. “Our league emphasized fundamentals, discipline, and sportsmanship, incorporating Chowan University’s men’s and women’s basketball teams to inspire young athletes,” he shared.

Brunet V. Parker – Minnie Wood Perkins Humanitarian Award

Recently retired after a 30-year career in education, Brunet V. Parker was honored for her dedication to youth empowerment. A graduate of multiple institutions, including Chowan University, Elizabeth City State University, and East Carolina University, she holds an MBA and is a Certified Professional Mentor.

In 2011, she received the Roanoke-Chowan News Herald Front Page Award for enriching students’ lives through Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), which she chartered at Hertford County Middle School. Her motto, “The greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it,” continues to inspire.

Words of Wisdom: Choosing the Right Path

Linda Pierce, a Hertford County native and active First Baptist Church member, spoke about the importance of education and making wise choices. She quoted Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken,” emphasizing:

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.”

She urged attendees to believe in themselves, seek wisdom, and choose friends wisely. Quoting George Carlin, she reminded the congregation, “We have learned how to make a living, but not a life. We have added years to life but not life to years.” She concluded with a powerful reflection: “The decisions we make control our destiny. What road will you take today?”

Continuing the Rouson Legacy

The Rouson family remains deeply connected to Chowan University—not just through their endowment but through their service in art, youth work, and business. Around 30 Rousens were in attendance celebrating their love for their heritage, each other, their community and Chowan. Reverend Willie Elliott, responsible for sharing information with Jill Awuni, who worked tirelessly to find them all, was ecstatic to see relatives he hadn’t been with for years, as well as meet new family members. He closed the gathering with prayer thanking the Lord for “this auspicious day to share the Rouson legacy—a legacy of family, service, and support for others.”

The Rousons are a talented family with members in public service, working with youth, in finance and entrepreneurs, including a legacy of professional artists. Homer Rouson, son of Reverend George Thomas and Luvenia Baker Rouson was an artist. John Hairston, Jr. Kathy Rouson’s son, is a commercial artist and owns All City Studios, where he blends political satire, social commentary and obscure pop-culture references into art. Hairston’s work is on display in various art galleries all over the world.

Jill Awuni, Assistant Professor of Religion, Director of International Affairs and organizer of The Rouson Lecture was thrilled. “What a magical experience to bring family members together for such an inspirational event. We feel deep gratitude to Reverend George Thomas and Luvenia Baker Rouson for being influential trail blazers whose heritage continues to bring family, students and community together.”