Todd Receives Wesleyan Inspiration Award
Clay Todd, a religion and five-year master of business administration 2020 graduate from Oakland, MD, was named the Wesleyan Inspiration Award winner at the College’s annual Awards Ceremony. The award is presented when a Wesleyan student truly defines the word “inspiration.”
In making the award, Todd was described “as a person who has the ability and willingness to be selfless, creative, innovative, or just dares to be different and a person who has gone above and beyond for Wesleyan and the local community, always demonstrating the highest standard of character.”
Todd, who plans to pursue a career in ministry, contributed countless hours of service and volunteerism through various channels, including his leadership roles within the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Christian Fellowship, and the Bobcat basketball team. He also served as an active volunteer with the Literacy Volunteers of Upshur County, both Buckhannon-Upshur High School and Middle School, the Upshur Parish House, and the Opportunity House.
Todd, known for his true humanity behind his efforts, is able to connect with people. He sees or hears of a need, and strives to meet it, not to collect service hours or gain recognition, but to be a light to others. He seems to always find a way to do more or give extra of himself.
Perhaps the most significant of all of Todd’s contributions has been the mentorship of two young boys in the community. He was first introduced to the family a few years ago by his pastor, amid a challenging time for them. Todd began taking time of out of his schedule to play basketball with the boys, talked and ate lunch with them at school, and attended their basketball games.
When the boys lost their father unexpectedly, Clay and his brother, Landon Todd, stepped up to provide care as the family grieved and grappled with the loss. The boys’ mother stated, “Clay truly shown us love and compassion, and what kindness is in the world today. I could not ask for a better role model for my sons. We have been beyond blessed to have him become a part of our lives.”