The Howard A. Pierson Legacy Scholarship – Honoring a Trailblazer. Inspiring the Next Generation
The Howard A. Pierson Legacy Scholarship honors the life and legacy of one of Rockland Community College’s most influential leaders. Affectionately known as “Howie,” Pierson was a pioneering athlete, educator, coach, and mentor who spent his life breaking barriers, opening doors, and helping others reach their full potential.
Remembered for his humility, warmth, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Howie left an enduring mark on RCC and the greater Rockland County community.
A Legacy of Breaking Barriers
A 1954 graduate of Tappan Zee High School, Pierson distinguished himself as an exceptional multi-sport athlete, earning 13 varsity letters across four sports. He continued his athletic career at Manhattan College, where he led the Metropolitan Conference in hitting with a .421 batting average and became the college’s first Black baseball captain.
After graduating in 1958, he played professional baseball for four years in the Philadelphia Phillies organization, becoming one of its early Black players. Following two years of service in the U.S. Army, he returned to his community to pursue a career in education and coaching. As a science teacher and coach at Tappan Zee High School, he became Rockland County’s first Black high school coach.
Throughout his career, Pierson challenged racial barriers with quiet determination, dignity, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
Transforming Athletics at RCC
Pierson joined RCC in 1965 and coached men’s basketball, baseball, and golf while teaching health and physical education. In 1972, he became RCC’s Athletic Director, the first Black athletic director at a New York State community college.
Under his leadership, RCC athletics flourished. His golf teams captured 21 Mid-Hudson Conference championships and multiple NJCAA Region XV titles. More importantly, he helped generations of students develop the discipline, confidence, and academic commitment needed to succeed both on and off the field.
Pierson also played a key role in advancing RCC’s athletic facilities, helping champion the development of the Eugene Levy Fieldhouse. His vision helped establish a permanent, multipurpose facility designed to serve student athletes and the broader community.
After 25 years as Athletic Director and 32 years of service to RCC, Pierson retired from the position in 1997. His commitment to the college continued through his work as golf coach until 2020—a testament to his lifelong dedication to students and the sport he loved.
A Pioneer on the Golf Course
Although Pierson took up golf in his late 20s, he quickly established himself as a trailblazer in the sport. He became the first Black golfer to compete in the U.S. Amateur Championship and, in 1980, the first Black golfer to win the prestigious Metropolitan Golf Association Amateur Championship.
A seven-time amateur tournament winner, Pierson competed in multiple U.S. Amateur and U.S. Senior Open tournaments before turning professional in 1986. As an associate member of the PGA Senior Tour, now PGA Tour Champions, he competed in 17 tour events over four years and qualified for two U.S. Senior Opens.
He also shared his expertise as a teaching professional at New York Country Club in New Hempstead, mentoring generations of golfers. His contributions to the game were further recognized through his induction into the Metropolitan Golf Association Hall of Champions.
A Life Defined by Character and Service
Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Pierson’s greatest legacy was the difference he made in the lives of others. As an educator, administrator, coach, and mentor, he encouraged young people to pursue excellence, overcome obstacles, and lead with integrity.
His life reflected four enduring values; Integrity First, Empowerment Through Education, Quiet Fortitude & Generational Mentorship.
For Howie, success was measured by the lives he touched, the barriers he helped break, and the opportunities he created for those who followed.
Help Keep Howie’s Legacy Alive
The Howard A. Pierson Legacy Scholarship carries forward Howie’s lifelong commitment to education, mentorship, and student achievement. Established in his honor following his passing at age 91 in 2026, the scholarship will help future generations of RCC students and student-athletes pursue their educational goals and realize their potential.
Thank you for helping carry Howie’s legacy forward.