Last December, I had the honor of getting an exclusive behind the scene tour of the new gymnasium at Harding University High School by their principal and my friend, Dr. Eric Ward, Sr. It was the day of the ribbon cutting and I had missed the ceremony due to a prior engagement. So I called Ward and asked him if I could stop by and snap a couple pictures for our website. His response, “Come On!” (He always answered my calls and text with a yes.)
Fast forward to this September, we lost Dr. Ward due to a massive stroke. He was just 46 years old. As I type this, I still can’t believe that my friend is gone. But I am happy to know that his legacy will live on.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg School just announced that the gymnasium at Harding University High School will now be known as the Dr. Eric T. Ward, Sr. Athletic Center. A very deserving honor for a dynamic educator, leader, husband, father, and friend.
I can not wait to sit in the stands during the first basketball game of the season. The only thing that will be missing is Dr. Ward standing on the sideline cheering his students on as he always did! You are truly missed friend. RIP Dr. Ward.
Check out some of the picture from my exclusive tour of the newly named Dr. Eric T. Ward Sr. Athletic Center below.