Winston-Salem State University alums showed remarkable generosity during its homecoming celebration. During the festive weekend, the university proudly announced a stunning total of $287,963.97 raised by its alumni.

The highlight of the homecoming festivities came during Founder’s Day Convocation, when Reggie McCaskill, president of the Winston-Salem State University National Alumni Association, presented Chancellor Bonita Brown with a check for $100,000. This substantial contribution is earmarked to bolster student scholarships.

Class Reunion Donations

Notably, various reunion classes banded together to contribute significantly to their alma mater:

-Class of 1999 (25th Reunion): $13,494 to support the Red Sea of Sound marching band

-Class of 1989 (35th Reunion): $23,913 to enhance WSSU programs

-Class of 1974 (50th Reunion): $74,000 dedicated to student scholarships

-Class of 1984 (40th Reunion): $40,200 allocated for student scholarships

-1999 CIAA Championship Football Team: $36,357 to support the football program

A Full Circle Moment

Thesha Woodley is the director of alumni engagement at WSSU. She explained that reunion classes come together to campaign throughout the year, and the Office of Alumni Engagement provides guidance on effective fundraising strategies. This year held special significance for Woodley, whose father, Theophilus Woodley, was part of the Class of 1974. “It was definitely a full circle moment – this being a milestone year for him and me being in this role,” she reflected.

Woodley shared how her father’s class instilled in her the values of being a Ram and the importance of alum contributions. Their generous donations helped fund her education, allowing her to graduate without student loan debt. “This year’s contributions will have a profound impact on the lives of our students just like it had on mine,” she remarked, expressing hope that more alumni are inspired to give back to their university.

Chancellor Bonita Brown expressed her gratitude: “On behalf of our students, faculty, and staff, I extend my deepest gratitude to our alumni community. The generosity of our alumni reflects the unwavering dedication of our graduates to ensure a bright future for our university and its students.”