Dr. Shade was my counselor and friend. We were introduced back when I was a high school senior by my cousin Cindy McKendall. Cindy knew that I would be an engineering major at UNO and needed some looking after. Dr. Shade was up for the challenge and got started early. Before I had a chance to take off my cap and gown, my cousin Cindy and Dr. Shade met me outside of the UNO Lakefront Arena immediately after my high school graduation ceremony. I really felt special that Dr. Shade attended, and he has supported me ever since.\r\n\r\nI survived those early years at UNO because Dr. Shade was there. I remember how comforting it felt when I would go to the 9th floor of the engineering building and Dr. Shade's office door was open. I know his job title was \"counselor\", but it never felt like he was doing a job. It felt more like I was talking to a family member who just happened to understand the challenges of a Black engineering student at UNO back in 1989. As I moved on to graduate from UNO, attend graduate school, and stand at the altar to marry my wife, Dr. Shade was always there to celebrate these and other milestones in my life. \r\n\r\nDr. Shade gave me encouragement and confidence to pursue my dreams. I hope that his family finds comfort, strength, and joy in knowing that his life made a difference in the lives of those around him.