Seidel Receives Honorary Doctorate

SALISBURY, MD---Samuel W. Seidel, prominent Eastern Shore businessman, civic leader and philanthropist, receives an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters at Salisbury State University's commencement on Saturday, May 26, at 10 a.m. at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center.

Seidel, a staunch supporter of SSU, with his wife, Marilyn, a retired nurse, endowed the University's School of Education and Professional Studies in 1997.  At that time it was only the second named endowed school of education in the country.  

Locally, they have a history of creative philanthropy. In 1993, the Seidels  established the 2100 and 2200 funds to assist those less fortunate in Salisbury and Wicomico County.  Borrowing an idea from Benjamin Franklin, they purchased $100,000 in bonds for each account which will not be opened until the end of the 21st and 22nd centuries.  At that time the funds are projected to be worth $25 million and $25 billion, respectively. 

The Seidel name has long been associated with citizenship and education.  An SSU alumnus and veteran of World War II, he received five Battle Stars for combat in the Pacific.  Returning to Salisbury after the war, he taught and coached basketball at Wicomico High School.   

But he taught more than winning: To improve his team's skills, he had them scrimmage with African-American players from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, unheard of on the Shore at that time.  This act had a profound impact on the young athletes. Said one, future U.S. Senator Paul Sarbanes,  "Sam imparted values to me, values which still guide me in my professional life." 

A self-made man, in 1952 Seidel went into the insurance business and established what became the largest privately-owned insurance operation in Maryland.  He continued to emphasize equality by hiring African-American professionals and sponsoring integrated sports teams. "He's taken heat for being a supporter of minority issues," said retired President of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Dr. William P. Hytche. 

In 1966, at the urging of the Democratic Central Committee, Seidel ran for Salisbury City Council where he served for 20 years before retiring.   

As his businesses prospered, the Seidels endowed scholarships for area high schools and colleges and established a special "Reading Forever" fund to build up local school libraries.  Throughout they maintained a special relationship with Salisbury State.  Seven of the 14 scholarships they have financed in the region are at SSU.  During his tenure as president and member of the SSU Foundation Board, he worked tirelessly to build its assets.  And all three of the Seidel children, Hank, Mike and Jennifer, are Salisbury State graduates; all have gone on to graduate school.  

A popular figure, Seidel has served on several community boards and his work, integrity and courage have been recognized by his fellow citizens. His honors have included awards from the National Conference of Christians and Jews, the White House, the Rotary, the Chamber of Commerce, Salvation Army and SSU.  In 1995, he received the Salisbury Award, the city's highest accolade for citizenship. One University neighbor described Seidel as a "parent, teacher, citizen, leader, coach, conscience, benefactor, healer, friend. .... I can't think of a better role model." 

Tickets are required for commencement. For more information call 410-543-6030 or visit the SSU Web site at www.salisbury.edu.