Roll Call Tribute

Samuel S. Sampson, Jr. 

April 29, 1961 - January 15, 2024 

Dr. Samuel Setewayo Sampson, Jr., affectionately known as Sam J. Born in San Fernando, Trinidad, on April 29, 1961, Dr. Samuel Sampson was destined for greatness from the very beginning.

Growing up in Trinidad, he attended Fyzabad Senior Comprehensive School, where he not only excelled academically but also demonstrated his athletic prowess. Dr. Sampson was a champion, earning the title of 110m men's hurdle champion in Trinidad and Tobago. His high school achievements reached their peak when he became the valedictorian and Victor Ludorum, leaving an indelible mark on his alma mater.

Dr. Sampson continued his journey in pursuit of knowledge, earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 1992 from Prairie View A&M University. His academic journey did not stop there, as he went on to study comparative politics and international relations at Texas A&M University, and achieve a Master of Education in Public Administration and, finally, a Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy Analysis in 2009 from Southern University and Agricultural & Mechanical College at Baton Rouge. His academic achievements were accompanied by numerous honors and awards, including induction into the Prairie View A&M University Sports Hall of Fame. As a sportsman and scholar, Dr. Sampson demonstrated excellence both on and off the field.

Post-college, Dr. Sampson continued to shine, receiving accolades such as the Staff of the Year Award in 2012 and the PVAMU Panther Award, the highest university student award. Dr. Sampson's dedication to wellness and education shone through his pivotal role as the Research & Evaluation Chairperson for the inaugural Pathway To Total You Wellness Health Conference at Prairie View A&M University. Additionally, he co-led an award-winning research initiative titled "Food Insecurity and Homelessness Among Students attending an HBCU," marking the first study conducted at an 1890 Land Grant Institution. This groundbreaking research inspired the implementation of PVAMU Hilltop Reserve, providing students with access to fresh produce, meats, and nonperishable food items.

Outside the academic realm, Dr. Sampson extended his influence, actively engaging in various organizations such as the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Houston and distinguished honor societies. Furthermore, as the co-founder of QualQuan Group LLC, specializing in statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and data mining, he demonstrated his commitment to advancing research methodologies.

His diverse affiliations, including his cherished fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc., underscored his unwavering dedication to brotherhood and service. Dr. Sampson's multifaceted contributions left an indelible mark, impacting both the academic and social spheres he so passionately embraced. Dr. Sampsons favorite line was “Here comes the Notorious B.I.G.” which was a demonstration of his fun spirit and always reminded people to never sweat the small stuff and that everyone deserves grace, which encapsulated his approach to life. His hobbies included listening to Parang music, watching track and field, football, basketball, and cricket, reading, cooking, baking, and dancing. He found joy in crunching numbers, taking care of the Sandra Bland memorial, telling corny jokes, enjoying Trini food, donning
his famous Halloween costume across campus, and spending quality time with family.

As we bid farewell to this extraordinary soul, let us remember Dr. Samuel S. Sampson, Jr. for his accomplishments, his passion for life, and the love he shared with each person he encountered. May his spirit live on in our hearts, and may we find inspiration in the legacy of Dr. Samuel Setewayo Sampson, Jr. 

Dr. Samuel S. Sampson, Jr. was proceeded in death by his parents Samuel Setewayo Sampson, Sr. and Rebecca Theresa Sampson. He leaves to mourn six siblings; Avion Thibous, Margaret Sampson, Madonnna Doyle, Arthur Sampson, Lionel Sampson, and Marion Sampson.