CHARLES R. BYRD
(1919-2004)
The WVSU PRSSA named its Chapter after Dr. Charles Robert Byrd during the annual Communication Day Ceremony held April 27, 2007, in the Wilson Union. Dr. Byrd initiated the Communications Department at West Virginia State University (then College) during his tenure. He joined the faculty on January 3, 1941 and remained until his retirement in 1987. His widow, Dr. Charlene Byrd accepted flowers and a plaque depicting the new name: Charles R. Byrd Chapter of the PRSSA at West Virginia State University.
Dr. Charlene Byrd recalled her husband having developed the program which led to the present television facility and recalled with fondness his having bought the first 16mm projectors and overhead projectors. He was also responsible for operating the public address system. Because he was the public address announcer for all football, basketball, and other athletic games and contests, he became affectionately known as the “Voice of the Yellow Jackets.” His technology responsibilities also included showing the weekly motion pictures in the “A Building” and playing recorded chimes on Sundays to signal the required attendance of all students at evening chapel services.
Dr. Charles R. Byrd received his Bachelor of Science degree from Hampton University, an MA in Higher Education from New York University, and the Ed.D. from Syracuse University with a major in Higher Education in Communication and Technology.
Dr. Charlene Byrd recalled her husband having developed the program which led to the present television facility and recalled with fondness his having bought the first 16mm projectors and overhead projectors. He was also responsible for operating the public address system. Because he was the public address announcer for all football, basketball, and other athletic games and contests, he became affectionately known as the “Voice of the Yellow Jackets.” His technology responsibilities also included showing the weekly motion pictures in the “A Building” and playing recorded chimes on Sundays to signal the required attendance of all students at evening chapel services.
Dr. Charles R. Byrd received his Bachelor of Science degree from Hampton University, an MA in Higher Education from New York University, and the Ed.D. from Syracuse University with a major in Higher Education in Communication and Technology.
Copyright © 2010 West Virginia State University
C. R. Byrd PRSSA. All Rights Reserved.
C. R. Byrd PRSSA. All Rights Reserved.
