Clinton College recently celebrated the grand opening of the new Margaret Neely Bookstore, a significant milestone in the institution’s ongoing efforts to enrich student life. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by college officials, students, faculty, and local community leaders, all gathered to honor a woman whose legacy continues to inspire future generations of Clinton students.
The bookstore, named after Clinton alumna Margaret Neely, Class of 1955, pays tribute to her remarkable journey of perseverance and service. Margaret’s connection to Clinton began under extraordinary circumstances. After a bout with rheumatic fever disrupted her high school education, she received a scholarship to Clinton College with the support of her pastor. Once there, she became an ambassador for her peers, serving as a mentor and chaperone, all while working as a hairdresser to support herself. Her commitment to the Clinton community extended even to styling the hair of Clinton College’s president at the time, Dr. Sallie V. Moreland.
Margaret’s life is a testament to the power of resilience and the opportunities Clinton College provides its students. Following her graduation, she pursued further education at the University of Buffalo, where she earned a Master’s degree in Counseling. For nearly three decades, she dedicated her career to helping students as a school counselor in Buffalo Public Schools, shaping the lives of countless young people.
In her later years, Margaret remained a steadfast supporter of her alma mater, frequently attributing her success to her experiences at Clinton College. The new Margaret Neely Bookstore stands as a beacon of her legacy, symbolizing not only her personal journey but also the enduring impact of a Clinton education.
As Clinton College celebrates this new addition to campus, the Margaret Neely Bookstore serves as both a practical resource for students and a lasting tribute to one of the school’s most cherished alumna.
