Brother Dr. Guilbert A. Dailey, Professor Emeritus of Speech and Theatre, retired from Coppin State College in 1996 after more than 30 years of service to the College. He joined the Coppin State College faculty in 1962, as an Assistant Professor of English and Speech and as Director of Theater
Around 1968, Coppin State Teachers’ College began its transition into a four-year liberal arts institution; thus, new majors were developed. When the English major was instituted, Dailey developed new courses in literature, speech, and drama, including Shakespeare and Advanced English Grammar. He was a Shakespearian scholar. In 1973, he became chairman of the newly established Speech Theatre Department, and the speech, drama and productions courses, originally offered through the English Department, were moved into the new department. Today, students can pursue the Speech Theatre concentration as a minor and Urban Theatre Management major.
Dr. Dailey is a Past Director of the Eastern Region, past Editor in Chief of The Crescent Magazine, Past International Director of Education and a member of the Distinguished Service Chapter. Dr. Dailey took pride in being a part of the 100 Black Men of Maryland and the Connecting Links. It was through these public service arms that he funneled his undaunted service to youth and to the community. For several years he chaired the William Dorsey Scholarship Fund, directing scholarships to predominantly black colleges of Maryland.
Guilbert A. Dailey served Coppin State College for thirty-three years. Throughout his entire career, he had a reciprocal learning relationship with his students. He believed that every good teacher can and does learn something from his students. He has always placed his students first.
Their growth in learning and their ability to think more profoundly and progressively were his chief concern. He set and modeled extremely high standards for his students and never allowed them to settle for mediocrity.
In 1996 he retired and as a tribute, he was requested to deliver the Commencement Address. Two years later, in 1998, Dr. Dailey was bestowed another great honor. He was conferred Professor Emeritus for his outstanding service and contribution to Coppin State College, its faculty, and its students. Dr. Dailey was the first faculty member at Coppin to be bestowed this status.
Dr. Guilbert Alfred Dailey died in 1999. He had shared a beautiful marriage with Dr. Thelma Thomas Daley, past National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. They greatly complemented each other. Dr. Thelma Dailey, a former Coordinator of Guidance and Counseling for Baltimore County Public Schools, is a consummate educator. She has a continued history of community and public service. Her leadership skills have been acknowledged by a number of professional and public service organizations. As a couple, they gave freely of their time to local, national and international community endeavors.
