Pryor Scrapbook Bessie Mae, 1984

Route 3, Box 51 Pocola, Oklahoma 74902 October 10, 1984 Dear Bessie Mae, Since I arrived at Harding as a Freed-Hardeman, I was not the typical pledge Dean of Women, asked me why I wanted to be a had observed the girls on campus and I had out-going individuals with high standards. I also checked out the sponsors, and for me, shoulders above all the others. junior transfer student from candidate, and Zelma Bell, then Regina. My answer was simple--! found the Reginas to be active, did NOT tell her that I had Bessie Mae Pryor was head and After becoming a Regina, I learned first hand that you deserved the reputation you enjoyed on the campus. The fact that you were the wife of the beloved Dr. Joe was an added bonus. I have always felt it was an honor and a privilege to have been a Regina, and you and Dr. Joe are greatly responsible for the esteem that the Reginas have achieved. Pledge week my senior year will always be remembered. Our Regina pledges were pretty as could be, and to attract attention we required them to carry umbrellas all week. The first day, a friend instructed one of his pledges to carry the umbrella for the "nice young lady," but she felt that she was required to carry it herself. I think I must have glowed as I said rather pompously, "Pledge, Reginas always graciously accept the courtesies offered by gentlemen." It spread like fire, and the rest of the week boys were dashing off to carry an umbrella for a Regina. We wanted our pledges to get favorable attention, and we succeeded! I remember wishing that you could see what was happening. For a number of reasons, I have never wanted to return for Homecoming. However, when I received the invitation to be a part in honoring you for your many years as Regina sponsor, I immediately began making plans to attend. Since I was one of the first Reginas to graduate, I want to confirm by my presence that my admiration for you and Dr. Joe has not diminished thru the years, and you are a part of many fond memories! May you have many more successful years as Regina Sponsor! . All my love, Lavonne Blackman Lavonne Blackman Class of 1951