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Tufts University - Index

Tufts University - Arts and Sciences Case Statement Tufts University - Index

CHERYL MCCOURTIE, J84
Executive Director of The Montel Williams MS
Foundation, New York, New York
Cheryl McCourtie grew up in Liberia, Malawi, and
Swaziland. At Tufts, she studied English, and she
recalls the positive influence of Veve Clark, who
taught literature of the African diaspora “with
humor and grace,” and Elizabeth Ammons, the
Harriet H. Fay Professor of Literature at Tufts, who
taught spirited women’s studies classes and was
her advisor.
“My first and most important teachers were my
parents, who taught me by example to enjoy what I
work for and to give back. Professors Clark and
Ammons, two powerful women, encouraged me to
live a committed life, that skills are nothing without
conscience and choice. This is the essence of
good teaching. Life can be short, so each individual
should try to do something meaningful, to earn his
or her space on earth. Because of the combination
of my early life experiences, and ultimately my
molding at Tufts, I choose to do purposeful work in
the nonprofit arena.”
TRANSFORMING THE FUTURE
As the cornerstone of Tufts University, the School of Arts and Sciences is integral to the success
of the entire institution. From its grounding in the arts and humanities, the school puts forth
knowledgeable, civic-minded graduates with the skills and awareness to be exceptional citizens,
thinkers, scholars, and business leaders.
Alumni demonstrate in their own lives how the historical mission of Tufts continues to thrive.
We celebrate Tufts’ commitment to providing one of the finest educational experiences in the
country. Investing in the Arts and Sciences is required to meet critical needs and to help Tufts
University, as a whole, achieve its goals. We ask you to please join us in supporting this great
mission and this great institution.