This article is from the EMU News Archive. Current EMU new is available at www.emu.edu/news

EMU Alumnus to Sign Book

J. Harold Zook will autograph copies of his book, "The Eagle Soars: A Story of Triumph Over Disability," noon-1:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21 in Martin Chapel of the seminary building at Eastern Mennonite University.

Zook, a 1959 EMU graduate, was named the 2002 "alumnus of the year."

The Oley, Pa., native was born with a degenerative disability that greatly limited his mobility. Never able to run, to walk normally or to get up if he fell, he learned, through the wisdom and encouragement of his parents, to compensate for his physical limitations and was able to make a full contribution to work on the family farm.

Following two extensive surgeries, Zook was sent to what was then Eastern Mennonite College against his will by a wise father where he studied to become an English teacher. The year after graduation, he endured two severe innovative operations where foot bones were cut to allow him to walk with less pain.

Persistence and determination propelled Zook into becoming head of the English department and then vice principal of Indian Valley Middle School, Harleysville, Pa., where he served with distinction in spite of his continuing muscular deterioration. For the last 10 years of his career, his mobility was limited to a motorized cart. The school, largely due to Zook's efforts, was cited as a National Blue Ribbon School.

Former students, parents, staff and administrators testify that Zook "demonstrated his faith, love and belief in the divine in every person," reported James Payne, his EMU roommate who nominated Zook for the alumni award.

"Zook’s years at Indian Valley would have been an outstanding career for anyone, said Payne. But "his faith gave him hope and strength. In his life he soared like the eagle," referring to the school’s mascot.

"No person I know has so fully lived my perception of Jesus Christ, nor has influenced so many persons to realize the potential given to them by their Creator," Payne said.

All proceeds from sales of the book will to to the Conflict Transformation Program (CTP) at Eastern Mennonite University. Established in 1994, CTP encourages the building of a just peace at all levels of society in the United States and abroad. The program reflects the manner in which Zook handled discipline during his teaching and administrative career. He was known as a tough but loving disciplinarian who followed up with graduates, encouraging them and congratulating them on any achievement.

"Every man is a portrait of himself," said Zook. "My portrait is a tribute to all those who have helped me to never lose my love for life, nor my belief and willingness to face each day with anticipation, love and happiness just for the privilege of doing so."

— article by: Jim Bishop; posted February 16, 2004