Dean Craig Reflections

Thank you for sharing your special memories about Dean Emeritus Quiester Craig. If you haven't yet shared your thoughts and condolences and would like to do so, click here to go to our submission form.

I joined the faculty in the School of Business and Economics under the leadership of Dean Craig as an Associate Professor in the Business Administration Department in 1980. I soon discovered that just as he was devoted to providing opportunities for students to reach their full potential, he had the same desire for his faculty. I attribute Dean Craig's leadership and guidance to my many professional successes in life. Rest in peace Dean Craig.
— Georgia Williams Bowser

I met Dean Craig as a sophomore. I went to his office to ask for scholarship funds. He told me, "boy you better get out of my office with those C's on your transcript. I never made another C and he, true to his word, funded the balance of my education at NCA&T.
For any success I may have had in my professional career, it is because he challenged me. I will be eternally grateful for his wisdom, insight and leadership.
— Robert Gaines, CPA

"An apple for, and kudos our renowned Mentor, Teacher, Professor, Dean and Friend, who will be most graciously missed, Dr. Quiester Craig."
— Paul T. Frizzell, Jr.

Always there for me
— Gregory Evans

Dean Craig was my dean when I started A&T in 2000. He was extremely kind, whitty and fierce about his students. I admired him because, while he was tough on us in the College of Business, we knew that he cared deeply and would invest time into mentoring us. The College of Business will forever remember his legacy. I am grateful for his guidance and leadership. Rest well Dean Craig. We love you!
— Leah S. Ford

Dr. Craig was a phenomenal leader and mentor. His brilliance was in his humble spirit to inspire everyone around him to strive for excellence. His approachable demeanor made him a great leader and friend. A giant in A&T's legacy as a great university of higher learning.
— Gary Truman Hardison

Dr. Craig provided Knowles and insight long after I graduated from NCA&T. I will always remember his care and concern for his students and the growth of the Business School due to his efforts.
— Cynthia Carter

I graduated in 1973. Dean Craig, was fairly new, but he reached out to students to let them that he was approachable. I will always remember him fondly as the great person he was.
— Juanita Foxx

Very Sad.
— Tangela Shields Williams

Please pass along my deepest condolences to the Craig Family. Dean Craig built an institution like no other in the country. As a senior in HS I partially made my decision to major in Accounting knowing that the business school AND the Accounting department at A&T were accredited; due in large part to Dean Craig. I owe him this journey of a career as it would not have been possible without his guidance, vision and leadership. Rest well, Dean.
— Craig Hodges

All of my academic achievements and business achievements, are to Dr. Craig. He shared his plan for the accounting program and gave me the confidence to believe that we could achieve all the goals that he had set. He pushed us to achieve, but gave us education and skills to compete in the business world. Becoming a CPA and a managing partner of a CPA firm is all due to him. I have always thanked God for placing him in my life.
— Terry Tyler

I will be forever grateful to Dean Craig for bringing me to North Carolina A&T. His letter offering a scholarship made me aware of the amazing educational opportunity that awaited me as a potential student in the School of Accounting. Once I read up on the prestigious nature of the program, I accepted the offer without hesitation and my life has never been the same. I owe my over 30 year accounting career and work ethic to him. He will be missed.
— Verdina Walker

Dean Craig was such a gentle giant with the most kind soul. I appreciate his wisdom and the great example that he set for all under his purview. I am forever grateful for the phenomenal life of Dean Craig!!! Your students love you and will miss you greatly!! Thank you, Dean Craig, for a job well done!
— Angela Kennerly Brown

Dean Craig was instrumental in me attending NC A and T State University, School of Business and Economics at that time. I was a recipient of a 4 year scholarship. Dean Craig not only gave me the scholarship, he allowed me to teach typing to the unbounded students.

When I received my doctoral degree, he became my mentor and my friend. I became a faculty member in the School of Technology and he guided my direction as I became a chairman.
— Cynthia Thompson. Ph.D.

Dr. Craig recruited Harold and James from Mobile AL in 1975 and said that he wanted to give two poor young guys a chance to prove that poverty does not limit one's opportunity in life. To his credit, we graduated (A&T) in accounting with honors and became successful entrepreneurs and an owner of multi-million dollar enterprises sharing and passing own that legacy statement to others.
— James A. Clausell

Dean Craig was a very nice, pleasant, encouraging and helpful man and he always took the time out to talk to you and give you an encouraging word. During my tenure and NC A&T State University, Dean Craig was always available if I had a question. He was that influential person that gave me the zeal to become an graduate in the school of Business and Economics. Thanks Dean Craig for everything you have done and you will be truly missed.
— Paige Turner Jr.

During my first visit after being admitted to A&T Dean Craig sat down with my mom and talked her through my plan for college. We decided on Marketing. Throughout my time, Dean Craig would personally call me on my cell to help me with internships and navigate each semester. I am truly thankful for his guidance. As a 1st generation student from a little rural SC town, this meant the world to me and still impacts me today. Rest well, Dean Craig
— Karen (Peters) Pryor

Dr. Craig, was firm but fair. He believed in you and held you to a standard. I am thankful for our time together at A&T. I needed him and take pride in knowing that I graduated under his leadership.
— DeRonte Polite

Dean Craig was such a huge part of my college experience. From the general things such as setting expectations for the incoming freshman class of business students, to the specifics of taking a chance on a kid from northeast Tennessee by giving me a work study opportunity, Dean Craig invested greatly in his students in preparing them for business career fields, and life in general. Praying for peace and comfort for his family during this time.
— Cornelius Moore

Dr. Craig is the epitome of the #HBCUdifference. Of all the things he did for me, most importantly, he sent me to a national pre-doctoral program I didn't even apply for the summer after my junior year because he saw something in me I didn't even know existed. He made sure I attended the right Ph.D. conferences. Over a decade later when I needed a recommendation letter for my Ph.D. program, he happily wrote one. Proud to be a part of his legacy!
— Michele Lewis Watts, Ph.D.

Dean Quiester Craig was more than an educator — he was a visionary leader, mentor, and advocate who shaped generations of business leaders at North Carolina A&T. As my dean and mentor, he saw potential in me, provided a scholarship, and guided my career with wisdom and care. His 40 years of service built a legacy of excellence, integrity, and generosity. Dean Craig's impact is immeasurable, and his memory will forever inspire us to lead and give back.
— Diane Frost Hill

Sincere condolences to family and friends as we honor the legacy of a great man, teacher, mentor and leader to countless members of our Aggie Family. You will be missed but not forgotten.
— George Sadler

I am forever grateful to Dean Craig for recognizing my potential and awarding me a scholarship throughout my years at A&T. He pushed all of his students to greatness and afforded us opportunities that my friends outside of A&T could only dream of. When I reflect on my college years, Dean Craig will always be a part of the wonderful memories and I am just honored to have been one of his students. RIP friend!
— Dionne (Harris) Porter

When I was a student, I would sometimes go see Dean Craig in his office. As soon as I mentioned my name, he would say "I know who you are and I've been keeping up with your grades." Just to know that I wasn't just a number and that he genuinely cared about me made me feel special! I will always remember him and his kind spirit.
— Kimberlee Jones

I remember walking into Dean Craig's Top Floor office in "Craig Hall", 20 years ago and being blinded by his bright and contagious smile, like it was yesterday! When I had self-doubts about graduating within 4 years, Dean Craig simply said to me: "Always Believe in Yourself. ALL-Ways". I am honored to have received Craig's guidance, counsel, and words of wisdom. Enjoy your "New" Top Floor Office, Dean Craig! Thank you for being a light to us all.
— Janice Puna

I met soon after I started my role as Chair of Industrial and Systems Engineering. He called to welcome me. I was surprised and honored. He then told me that it was a tradition for all chairs to visit the Dean of the School of Business; then asked me why I had not visited. I was stunned and apologetic that I did not know this fact. I started working out a time and day to visit; he burst out laughing and said it was just a joke! Beautiful soul!
— Tonya Smith-Jackson

Dr. Craig was the best. Dr. Craig created an environment which compelled you to succeed. The Accounting degree and the lessons I learned from Dr. Craig gave me the tools and confidence to compete in the professional world against anyone. Thank you Dr. Craig! I can't thank you enough! A truly great man! You will be missed! Rest in peace!
— Rudolph Brantley

Though I did not work with Dean Craig, he is true legend. I am thankful for what he did and what he built since I am a beneficiary of his great legacy. I hope to carry it forward by making the College of Business a place worthy of Dean Craig's legacy.
— Pankaj Chaudhary

Dean Craig we a Gentle Giant among Giants. He was truly the GOAT at Merrick Hall which is what the Business Department was called when I was a student. I will cherish the memories of his laughter and seeing his beautiful smile. He always took the time to stop and talk to you when you were in his presence. I will cherish his leadership forever. Rest well Dean Craig as your job on earth was well done.
— Angela R. Martin

In 1976 Dean Craig handed me my diploma and said, "get your head on straight". I understood him to be telling me I had potential but needed focus and confidence. In 1988 he handed me an award as "1988 Outstanding Alumnus". I said, "I now understand and thanks". To this day when things get fuzzy and out of focus, forty-eight years later, I still hear his voice, "get your head on straight". Thanks Dr. Craig for being a big part of who I am.
— George Hand

In 2008, I moved to Greensboro, NC, to attend NC A&T for a Business degree but found I was missing two classes to transfer in. It was too late for FAFSA, and I couldn't afford summer classes. A friend's mother suggested I seek help from the school. Dean Craig wrote me a personal check for the classes. I managed to pay just in time and started classes the next day. I ended the summer with an A and a B thanks to Dean Craig's support.
— Danuel James

In Fall 1982, when I walked into the office of the person that made it possible for me to attend college, his only request was that I maintain good grades to keep my scholarship, otherwise he’d send me back to the “farm” and he smiled. Especially since I did not live on a farm. Throughout college and my career, Dean Craig was always there for me with his encouraging words. I will always treasure and be grateful to him. He will be missed.
— Deirdre Lewis

Dean Craig, my Dean is the way I always addresed him. i was on the faculty of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) and went in to see the Dean of that institution. There was a picture of Dean Craig on the front page as the newly elected president of the then titled "National Association of Colleges and Business Schools." I beamed with joy and told that dean that Dr. Craig was 'my Dean." Rest in peace my "Dean."
— James Harper Jr.

I first met Dr. Craig as a freshman in the School of Business in 1973. I always found him to be a caring professor and later the Dean of the School of Business. Due to Dr. Craig's long tenure at the School of Business, my daughter Leah was also a student in the School of Business. We will missed Dr. Craig's appearance at the annual School of Business cookout during Homecoming. Thanks Dr. Craig for all you did for the students. RIP
— George W. Ford

Dean Emeritus Quiester Craig’s legacy is a cornerstone of the Willie A. Deese College of Business and Economics. Though I didn’t work with him directly, I deeply admire his leadership and vision. His efforts in achieving dual AACSB accreditation for our business and accounting programs set us apart globally. Dr. Craig’s dedication to excellence continues to inspire us all, and his remarkable legacy will forever shape our college’s future.
— Joe Huscroft

Dean Craig was the greatest champion for students. He expected a lot of us but no more than he was willing to give. I remember him following up on my summer internship. In learning that I had not received an assignment as expected, he got on the phone and within a couple of days I was headed off. Back then he seemed to move mountains. Today I know that he did because of the respect others had for him. I am better for having known him.
— Latonya Dixon Flamer

With Deepest Sympathy: I was deeply saddened to hear of your passing. Although I have never met you personally, I have heard so many stories, and have witnessed the legacy you left. I pray that you know that the work you accomplished has had a lasting impact upon so many; students, faculty, and staff. Your countless contributions to the Deese College of Business and Economics will continue on throughout the halls of Craig and Merrick!
— Marita Williams-Rogers

I met Dean Craig once in 2017, not long after I joined A&T, at a dinner and induction ceremony for the Beta Alpha Psi business honor society. He had been retired from A&T for four years and had difficulty rising from his chair when introduced. But as he stood, so did everyone else, showering him with a standing ovation. The respect and admiration for him was palpable. To paraphrase Shakespeare, "We shall not look upon his like again.'
— Todd Simmons

Rest in Power Dean Craig. Your hugs and iconic presence will be missed but your legacy will live on. You were the epitome of Aggie Pride! Thank you for your hugs, strong leadership and guidance through my undergradute years of 1987-1991. I think of you every time I look at my Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with a Concentration in Management. I remember your wisdom and guidance through the process.
— Pamela Sellars Bunch '91

In the spring of 1984, Dean Craig, along with Dr. Kiel, came to my high school, Sidney Lanier in Montgomery, AL to recruit me. Dean Craig was very excited to see the inside of Sidney Lanier (the million-dollar school) because when he grew up in Montgomery, the school was an all-white school. He persuaded my parents to let me leave the state of Alabama and attend A&T. I am forever grateful to Dean Craig. Thanks for helping your homegirl!!
— Kathy Harris Green

The first time speaking with Dr. Craig as a student, I went to his office to ask him for more money to attend school. He looked at me and said to me that I want money to put in my pocket (which was the truth). He made a phone call and the next 4 years I worked for Dean Craig. He is responsible for my 30+ years with Wachovia/Wells Fargo as he introduced me to the Head of HR for the bank in the fall ‘92.
— David Brown

I graduated from NC A&T in 1991 with a degree in Accounting. Dean Craig was an amazing Dean with an open door policy always welcoming students to come in and meet with him. I met with him often to discuss my grades, classes, scholarships etc. If classes were closed, he opened them, if you were short on money he found some, if the majority wasn’t pleased with an instructor, we saw changes. He made my college experience memorable and debt free.
— Kim Deck

It is with profound sadness and the fondest of memories that I write this note. Dean Craig has provided me with some of the greatest foundational components of my life. My accounting degree, my CPA and CGMA license, my marriage and family, and my professional success. I was the first Honeywell Scholar at A&T, an honor that provided me with free education and summer internships. I’m forever grateful for his guidance and leadership in my life!
— James F. Butler III

Dean Craig was an amazing leader and champion for his students. I am forever grateful to be a product of his enduring commitment to grow students into business leaders.
— Donna Cohen

I met him during my first year in grad School (1972). Graduated with a business degree. Loved him from the start. He was delightful. Came back several years to participate in his entrepreneurial program. He was brilliant. He will be missed.
— William Hubbard

Dr. Craig awarded me a full 4-Year academic scholarship, as freshman accounting major, in 1982. I am proud to say that 42 years later, enrolling in the accounting program at NC A&T was the best decision I have ever made. The education I received under his leadership prepared me to pass the CPA exam, obtain a masters degree and go on to have a rewarding career. Thank you, Dr. Craig!
— Sherri Penn Bigelow