For those students, faculty and staff members who were not present in the Ralph David Abernathy Hall Auditorium Tuesday, March 4, missed out on a powerful and emotional occasion honoring the late Vivian Watts DeShields, Ph.D. The auditorium was dedicated and officially named the Dr. Vivian DeShields Auditorium, a moment that captured the essence of her legacy.

The entire community came together to honor DeShields, who left a lasting mark on the university and countless students. She died in 2018, but her legacy continues to resonate deeply across campus, and this dedication and naming was considered by most to be the perfect tribute to a woman who truly mentored and cared for her students.
Harrison DeShields, the son of Vivian DeShields, shared his thoughts about the auditorium being named in his mother’s honor.
“This is something we will always cherish, and it means everything to the family,” Harrison said.
Geraldine Bell, Ed.D., Vivian DeShields’ sister, spoke fondly of her sibling’s legacy.
“She was loving and truly loved by her students,” Bell said.
Her words reflected the huge impact Vivian DeShields had, not only on her family but also on the students she mentored throughout her long career. Bell added that her sister’s influence was not confined to the classroom; it radiated throughout the university and beyond.

Several of the university’s current staff members were taught by Vivian DeShields, and they all agreed she changed their lives and shaped the paths they walked.
University President Quinton T. Ross Jr., Ed.D., led the unveiling of the auditorium sign with pride.
“I’m honored to unveil this dedication and be here for this wonderful occasion,” Ross said.
He took a moment to reflect on how Vivian DeShields had played an important role in preparing him for his own leadership journey.
“Vivian DeShields made an impact on me, as she did on so many of us here at ASU,” Ross said. “Vivian DeShields got me started on that track as the 15th president of this beloved institution. She is smiling down on me because she never knew she was helping to make me president.”
According to Fannie Tarrant, Ed.D., former editor-in-chief of The Hornet Tribune, DeShields legacy is a living testament to what true dedication to education looks like.
“She did not just care about grades; she cared about people,” Tarrant said. “Her students knew they could count on her for both academic support and personal encouragement. She was a true champion for the success of others, and it shows in the students and staff who continue to carry her lessons forward.”
Vivian DeShields was deeply engaged in both professional and civic activities, and her contributions extended far beyond the classroom. She was a proud member of Leadership Montgomery, the Beta Nu Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Montgomery Chapter of The Links, Inc. She served as president of both Phi Delta Kappa and the Council of Presidents in Montgomery. In addition to her work in education and civic engagement, Vivian DeShields was also a published author. Her recent book, Mama’s Journey: A Gift to Future Generations, reflected her lifelong commitment to education and mentorship.
The ceremony closed with remarks from Col. Ret. Gregory Clark, who spoke about Vivian DeShields’ unwavering commitment to her students.