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By: UPIKE Public Relations | November 8, 2018
University of Pikeville, in partnership with Wanda Silas and friends, has established the Derrick “Big Show” Silas Endowment Fund. Silas (’05), who was previously both a student and staff member at the university, unexpectedly passed away in 2016.
Silas was part of the university’s first football team, the “elite nine,” and was known on and off the field for his kindness, service to others and heart. A native of Camilla, Ga., he immediately embraced Pikeville and the university.
“Big Show loved Pikeville just as much as any person raised here,” said Clarissa Parker, who was a friend of Silas.’ “He loved the hospitality the most, and he was amazed at the love he and his fellow teammates received from the faculty and staff as well as the community.”
The pride and appreciation Silas had for the UPIKE family did not end after graduation. He continued his service through different staff positions on campus, including time as Public Safety Officer, Student Activities Director, Assistant Football Coach and Residence Hall Director.
It is the hope of Silas’ family, friends and colleagues that his endowment fund is the continuation of a service-driven legacy and will provide support for African-American students who possess that same love of community.
“I pray that the precious memories of him live on forever,” said Parker. “The only thing he ever wanted to do was to help make a difference any way he could.”
Silas’ endowment scholarship will be awarded once the fund reaches $25,000. To make a contribution or to establish an endowment fund, visit upike.edu/giving or call (606) 218-5276. Contributions may be mailed to the attention of the Office of Advancement: 147 Sycamore Street, Pikeville, KY 41501. Please make checks payable to the University of Pikeville and include Derrick “Big Show” Silas Endowment in the memo line.