The Curious Case of Hardin "Butch" Benjamin
By Ashley Benson
Issue date: 12/2/09 Section: News
Butch graduated from Langston in January 1968 with a major in music education. Butch said it took him so long to graduate because he took classes over and over again until he mastered the subject.
"I didn't have the attitude ' I can't do this.' I've never been the one to give up," Butch said.
Throughout his 48 years here at dear Langston he said he has seen changes in students' mentality as well. Butch said that he is really disappointed when students don't take advantage of their opportunities of education. He also feels that some students carry themselves poorly.
"Students should have pride in their appearance, and prepare for the real world now," Butch said.
Butch also mentioned that the way of dancing has changed and it is surprising to see when he attends the dances.
"We used to do the twist, Harlem shuffle, and the jerk. The way some students dance now is disgusting and should not be done in the presence of others," Butch said.
When asked how he feels about his reputation, he said he feels like a star.
"When they go to New York they want to see entertainers, when they go to LA a lot want to see the stars, when people come to Langston they want to see Butch!" Butch said.
Butch serves Langston by taking care of the Music Hall and he also gives lectures on the history of music. The memories of Langston, Butch said, are irreplaceable.
"Langston means quite a bit to me, from the transition from a student to faculty, it has been a big part of my life," Butch said.
Butch supports President JoAnn Haysbert and all the positive transitions she has made.
"I hope for Langston to progress like it has been doing, especially having a lady as president! That is definitely signs of progress," Butch said.
"I didn't have the attitude ' I can't do this.' I've never been the one to give up," Butch said.
Throughout his 48 years here at dear Langston he said he has seen changes in students' mentality as well. Butch said that he is really disappointed when students don't take advantage of their opportunities of education. He also feels that some students carry themselves poorly.
"Students should have pride in their appearance, and prepare for the real world now," Butch said.
Butch also mentioned that the way of dancing has changed and it is surprising to see when he attends the dances.
"We used to do the twist, Harlem shuffle, and the jerk. The way some students dance now is disgusting and should not be done in the presence of others," Butch said.
When asked how he feels about his reputation, he said he feels like a star.
"When they go to New York they want to see entertainers, when they go to LA a lot want to see the stars, when people come to Langston they want to see Butch!" Butch said.
Butch serves Langston by taking care of the Music Hall and he also gives lectures on the history of music. The memories of Langston, Butch said, are irreplaceable.
"Langston means quite a bit to me, from the transition from a student to faculty, it has been a big part of my life," Butch said.
Butch supports President JoAnn Haysbert and all the positive transitions she has made.
"I hope for Langston to progress like it has been doing, especially having a lady as president! That is definitely signs of progress," Butch said.
Viewing Comments 1 - 6 of 6
Sista girl
posted 12/02/09 @ 3:56 PM CST
I believe the article written about Butch is VERY disrespectful and ignorant. Why would you interview and ask someone questions about their personal mental status just to fulfill your curiosity. (Continued…)
Steve
posted 12/02/09 @ 4:12 PM CST
I believe the article on Butch was well written and there was nothing wrong with disspelling those rumors. People have been saying those things since I was at Dear Langston. (Continued…)
Paper Blog
posted 12/06/09 @ 6:20 AM CST
Hardin D. Benjamin is really very bright person.
Michael Jackson
posted 12/16/09 @ 8:08 PM CST
The first wealth is health, all is but lip-wisdom Michael Jackson that wants experience. Nike Shox experience is a hard Air Max shoes teacher because she gives the GHD Hair Straightners test first, the Authentic NFL Jersey lesson afterwards. (Continued…)
mail order brides
posted 3/26/10 @ 11:36 PM CST
I thank you for the opportunity to share a portion of my moments in time with future generations.
Sarah Hayes
posted 6/02/10 @ 12:42 AM CST
I think he is one of the loveliest people I have ever met. A kind, gentle man with a wealth of knowledge about music and life. I don't go to Langston. (Continued…)
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