Troy University took time to remember a man who broke barriers as a student and continued to serve his alma mater until his death earlier this year.

The university held a memorial service for Lamar Higgins on Friday, May 28th in the Claudia Crosby theater.

Higgins was the first African-American Student Government President in Troy University history. He went on to become the first African-American on TROY’s Board of Trustees when he was selected to serve in 1996.

“What has been created at TROY is a great tribute to him because it’s a wonderful wonderfully diverse population but people understand there’s one TROY,” says TROY Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. “I think the manifestation of his work and influence is seen throughout our student population.”

In addition to words from family and friends at the memorial, Higgins was recognized by his fraternity for his contributions to the organization.

“Without Lamar P. Higgins there will not be a Xi Beta chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated,” says Fraternity Brother Courtney Chandler. “Him along with sixteen other men basically set the standard with what we are based on today.”

For the full story watch Diondra’s report.