In 1997, Martin Lancaster took the helm of the North Carolina Community College System, and his colleagues, friends and family took time Tuesday night to honor his decade of leadership of that collection of institutions.
But those who thanked the retiring leader made it clear that his accomplishments extended far beyond the expanse of the system's 58 campuses.
"He spent his life serving the state," said former Gov. Jim Hunt.
"He came to the legislature, and was the leader there. He went to the Congress for 10 years, was a great leader there. He came back and helped us do some special things in this state."
Lancaster then served as Special Advisor to the President on Chemical Weapons and Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) before taking over the top job with the community colleges.
"Martin Lancaster brought his unique history of public service and visionary leadership to the Community College System," said Sue Cole, chair of the Biotechnology Center's Board of Directors, "and every day since that day he has tirelessly helped us build what we have now - the world's best biotechnology workforce.
"I have to say this. If we ever get a hall of fame of coaches of biotech leadership teams, Martin Lancaster, you are in it."
Lancaster and another leader, UNC system president Erskine Bowles, have taken a team approach over the last three years. The two have traveled throughout the state talking to students as well as community leaders about educational opportunities.
"We've been able to break down every single barrier that exists between the community colleges and the universities so that we can today without question provide a seamless education to the students in North Carolina," Bowles said.
"And I think that is a enormous accomplishment and it would not have happened without his leadership, his guidance, his perspective and his strength."
Bowles, Cole and others added their personal thanks to the professional kudos given to the North Carolina native. Scott Ralls, the incoming president of the community college system, said he'll always remember the cured tobacco leaf Lancaster had framed for his office.
"To me that always said something about Martin Lancaster," Ralls said.
"I think it was also something that he was trying to tell us is - that you don't ever forget where you came from."
Faculty Award Started
The North Carolina Research Campus was one of the four contributors to the H. Martin Lancaster Biotechnology Faculty of the Year Award. The North Carolina Biotechnology Center, with additional funding from the North Carolina Biosciences Organization and Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical Industries, set up the award to recognize one of the system's biotechnology faculty members each year. The winner will receive $500 to spend on classroom equipment and supplies.
The award was a way to continue Lancaster's work after his retirement April 30, said Norris Tolson, Biotechnology Center president and chief executive officer.
"You know that old TV commercial - when you say Martin Lancaster, everyone stops and listens," Tolson said. "They want to hear what you have to say."
Lancaster was almost reluctant to take the podium at the end of the remarks, and used the opportunity to return thanks to all the colleagues who helped him succeed over the years. He recognized those who put all the training programs in motion, and he wished good luck to his successor.
Ralls responded respectfully to the challenge ahead of him.
"I'm not going to fill his shoes," Ralls said.
"We're all going to stand on his shoulders."