Presidential Medal of Freedom certificate (Dr. Jerome H. Holland)

Presidential Medal of Freedom document lot to Dr. Jerome Holland: Presidential Medal of Freedom citation-certificate to Jerome H. Holland: “Dr Jerome Heartwell Holland, 1 of 13 children in a small-town family in New York State, rose from poverty to become a leading educator, civil rights activist, author and diplomat. Dr. Holland dedicated his career to improving the lives of others, particularly his fellow black Americans, and to working for peace. A man of vigor and wisdom, Dr. Holland led a life of service, the memory of which today serves as an inspiration to millions.” With a Ronald Reagan signature. In its original presentation folder (the certificate show light rubbing wear). With a photograph of President Reagan presenting the medal to Dr. Holland’s widow, a White House pass and invitation to lunch with the Reagans.

Dr. Jerome Holland was born 9 January 1916 in Auburn, New York. A high school athlete, Holland attended Cornell University and played football there, being twice selected as an All-American end. He earned a master’s degree in sociology while teaching and coaching at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. He later added a doctorate to his academic credentials. In 1953, Holland to over the presidency of Delaware State College, a traditionally African-American institution, which had lost its accreditation. Holland rebuilt the school’s stature and financial standing and the college was again accredited in 1957. In 1960, Dr. Holland left Delaware State College to take the helm of Hampton University, another historically black college. Retiring from that position in 1970, after leading Hampton through a decade of growth, Holland was appointed as US Ambassador to Sweden, a post he would hold for two years. In 1979, President Carter appointed him Chairman of the Board of Directors of the American Red Cross, a position he held until his death in January 1985. In May 1985, President Reagan posthumously awarded Dr. Holland the Presidential Medal of Freedom.