From Elko, SC to the concert stages of Europe, Harold Odom, and Jr. made a life journey of which many can only dream. Accepted into the famed Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre training program, Odom never lost sight of the prize and continued his college education during the fall and winter at Presbyterian College until he graduated with a B.A. degree in Theatre and a B.S. degree in Business Administration.

His acceptance into the 24 member Dance Company gave him the opportunity to perform throughout the world. “It was a wonderful experience. I visited Germany, France and England during our European tour.” After six years he decided, “it was time to come home.” Mr. Odom returned and earned an MFA in Dance from USC in 1986.

The following Fall Odom began teaching Dance and Theatre courses at Benedict College. During the eight years he worked at Benedict he founded and co-directed the Performing Arts Company and was actively involved in community theatre and local schools. He also founded the Benedict College Dance Company. He was a talented choreographer who helped the dance company win state and regional recognition. Shortly before his untimely death he said, “I love my art and wouldn’t take anything for it in the world. I really love what I do.”

He worked closely with Linda Kershaw, now Chair of the Fine Arts Department. She said, “Harold Odom was my friend and colleague. He was a master artist and teacher. He was a man strong in his faith in God and tremendously proud of his heritage. Because of his intimate faith he knew that with dedication and professional training there was no height that was insurmountable. His combined faith and self knowledge led him to seek the best in himself and in others.”

As a lasting tribute to a great spirit the Benedict College Dance Company is now the Harold Odom Dance Theatre. Currently the 26 members of the theatre representing seven states and the District of Columbia are committed to continuing the legacy of Harold Odom.