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Selby Inducted into Owens Campus Hall of Fame

May 21, 2025

Paul M. N. Selby, who spent more than 33 years working on the 麻豆视频 Jack F. Owens Campus in Georgetown, was inducted into the Owens Campus Hall of Fame during a May 16 ceremony. The Hall of Fame is a tribute to full-time campus employees who have served the College with distinction.

Selby began his Delaware Tech career July 1, 1972, and retired Jan. 31, 2006, as dean of student services (now called dean of student affairs). As dean, Selby oversaw all student-focused activities and services, was a member of the campus Administration Council, and served on numerous campus committees. He was also active in the design, dedication, and opening of the Student Services Center.

Prior to becoming dean, Selby held an array of student-service oriented jobs, including counselor, coordinator of student activities, Student Government Association advisor, and the recruitment of high school students.

His self-proclaimed proudest and most memorable moments took place when he announced graduates by name as they approached the stage to receive their degree or diploma.

Surrounded by tables of family members and a room full of friends and former colleagues at the induction ceremony, Selby was celebrated as a humble and highly deserving honoree.

College Vice President and Campus Director Dr. Bobbi Barends shared some opening remarks and noted Selby’s welcoming and caring nature.

“I personally never had an opportunity to work with Paul,” said Barends. “But in typical Paul Selby fashion, when I was introduced to him for the first time – and then every time I saw him on campus after that – he immediately made me feel at home and like I was part of the Delaware Tech family. And that’s who Paul is.

“He not only did that for me, but he did that for our students, and he did that for many of you,” she added. “I thank you, Paul, for that - the impact that you’ve made on so many lives.”

Wilford L. Oney Jr., a colleague and friend of Selby, continued that sentiment and shared about the influence Selby had on Oney’s life.

“Paul, you have been very instrumental in my professional career,” said Oney. “I saw you as an amazingly humble leader as you interacted with the staff, the students, and the administrators to fulfill the mission of Delaware Tech. You became my role model and my mentor, and you probably never knew that.

“With your guidance, your mentorship, your encouragement, and your support, I have achieved my goals – both personally and professionally,” Oney said. “You have made me a better person, a better husband, and I’m able to enjoy a better life because of you.”

In closing, Oney referenced the song, “If I Can Help Somebody,” which focuses on living a life of service and helping others, and stated that Selby was the “I” in the song and that Oney was the “somebody.”

Selby, in his remarks after being presented his Hall of Fame plaque, shared that when he was introduced to that very song it stayed with him and became his life theme. Selby, who stated that his mention of the song was not staged or coordinated with Oney, then proceeded to sing the song and received a standing ovation upon its conclusion.

Among his other remarks, Selby thanked those who supported him throughout his journey.

“I stand here representing those whose shoulders I stood upon. Those who were before me teaching and leading and pulling me along forward,” he said. “The ones who were behind pushing me, encouraging me, and motivating me to continue on.

“And those who have been beside me, assisting me and supporting me in everything I’ve ever tried to do,” said Selby. “I’m not just speaking about family. I’m talking about so very many of you who are here. I’m representing all of those before me.”

Selby is the thirtieth person inducted into the Hall of Fame, which was established in May 1992 and is located in the lobby of the campus’ Stephen J. Betze Library.

“To receive such an honor is truly humbling for me,” said Selby. “Thank you to Delaware Tech for the opportunities and especially for so many precious memories.”

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