MCC Hall of Fame Inductee: Sela Ward
Long before she stepped into television sets and onto red carpets, Sela Ward was a young art student sitting in a classroom at Meridian Community College, sketchbook open and future still taking shape.
Ward will be inducted into Meridian Community College’s Hall of Fame; she’s one of four who will be honored for their achievements. MCC recognizes a group of servant-leaders who have distinguished themselves in their professions and community service with the Hall of Fame award, which the MCC Foundation sponsors.
“I’m honored to be able to shout out all the merits of the jewel we have in our hometown,” Ward said. “MCC provides opportunities for not only the young people of our community but anyone who wants to further their education, pursue a new career, follow a passion, or dream.”
Ward’s career spans television, film, and philanthropy. She is best known for her roles in hit television series, including Sisters, Once and Again, House, and CSI: NY, as well as films such as The Fugitive and The Day After Tomorrow. In addition to Ward’s accomplishments in the entertainment industry, she is an advocate for children and families and founded Hope Village for Children in her hometown, providing a safe and supportive environment for those in need.
Ward enrolled at MCC after finishing high school a year early. At the time, her parents were not comfortable with her leaving home for college. With MCC nearby, she had a place to start. “We were lucky enough to have MCC,” she said. “It was a great transition period for me that was invaluable. It was the perfect first step to launch into young adulthood and independence.”
She described her time at the college as safe and nurturing; a place where she could grow into adulthood while building confidence.
In the classroom, Ward found direction. She credits her art teacher, Randy Schultz, with helping shape her path. “I absolutely loved my art teacher,” she said. “Having found my love of the visual arts in high school, his class really cemented my desire to major in fine arts and painting.”
But it was not just academics that left a mark. Ward said some of her fondest memories are of the friendships she formed in art class with several classmates, including David Nestor and Jeanne Fort. “I felt such a profound sense of belonging and camaraderie,” she said. “Finding your people, your tribe who share similar passions, interests, and dreams. Finding a community that both influences and inspires you is an extraordinary experience. For me, it was discovering that artists were my kindred spirits.”
Other courses stretched her thinking in new ways. A literature class that included reading The Population Bomb (Paul Ehrlich) exposed her to forward-thinking ideas she had not encountered before. A yoga class taught by an instructor from the NAS Meridian base sparked a lifelong interest. “To this day, it is a discipline I practice regularly,” Ward said. “It has truly enhanced the well-being of my life, both physically and mentally.”
Today, Ward measures success not by awards but by impact.
“I am most proud of what the benefit of celebrity can accomplish for others,” she said. “The ability to shine a light on issues that matter.”
Besides founding Hope Village for Children, she has supported community efforts such as the restoration of the Opera House and the creation of the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience. She also expressed admiration for MCC President Dr. Tom Huebner for his continued dedication to MCC and to children in need. “He understands the importance of connection to community,” she said. “He is truly passionate about making a better future for our kids.”
Ward and her husband Howard Sherman have two children, Austin and Anabella.
Visit meridiancc.edu/halloffame for more information.