William Friday

William Friday grew up in Dallas. After graduation from NC State he married the love of his life, Ida, and headed off to service in the Navy during World War II. After earning a law degree from UNC Chapel Hill, Bill became assistant dean of students and rose through the ranks becoming President of the three school university system in 1956. His vision and energy led the system through the civil rights movement, the Speaker Ban Law, and the consolidation of the University System, and helped the 16 campuses system become one the nation’s best. After outstanding leadership over 30 years he retired and became the Executive Director of the William Kenan Charitable Trust and co-chair of the national Knight Commission on College athletics. He is perhaps most recognized for his weekly TV show, NC People, where he has interviewed leading citizens for over 20 years. Few North Carolinians have contributed more to our state or nation than this champion and friend to our state, William Friday.

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