A Special Tribute to Isaac Simpson

The News Magazine of HCU

By Candace Desrosiers

To know our friend, mentor, professor and colleague, Isaac Simpson, was to love him, and you knew he reciprocated that love by the nickname he called across a campus setting in his booming voice to get your attention.  If you were in a pinch with campus technology, he was your phone-a-friend! His laugh was infectious and his friendship was loyal.

“His love for students and faculty was ingrained in the work he did here at HBU, “said Sandy Mooney, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer.

After a lengthy battle with cancer, Isaac passed away on Nov. 6, 2020.  Shortly thereafter came requests from many for a way to honor him with a tribute on campus.  Given his more than 35 years of service to HBU in the area of technology, a solar-powered Wi-Fi Smart Bench with USB and wireless charging ports became the clear choice.  More than 50 donors stepped up to fund the memorial.

“This is a very thoughtful and fitting memorial to Isaac – not only because he loved technology and would have loved putting it together – but because it is something for everyone,” said Clay Porter, Senior Director, Media Technology.

On March 28, bench donors, family, friends, colleagues, and students gathered on campus for the dedication.  Located between the Morris Cultural Arts Center and the Hodo Residence College, the bench is on a well-traveled path that will serve our students, employees, and visitors well.

“We are thankful to the Lord for his life.  The text on the bench from Philippians 1:3, ‘I thank my God for every remembrance of you.’ I can’t think of a better text to associate with Isaac; we thank the Lord for his life, his witness, and all of his work, “said Dr. Robert Sloan, President.

Closing out the dedication, Isaac’s wife, Dorothy Simpson, asked that everyone save a little space in their heart to remember Isaac.  Done.  His mark on individuals and the University is indelible.

Candace Desrosiers or as Isaac called me: CanDANCE Defrosters.