WSSU homecoming marked by gathering and giving as alumni donate more than half a million dollars

In the midst of homecoming hype, the lively celebrations and reunions, and unadulterated fun, there was a spirit of giving as alumni returned to the yard at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU).

The first full homecoming in four years proved to be generous as alumni donated over half a million dollars to their alma mater at a sum of $529,386.56.

The reunion classes donated a total of $281,386.56 alone. This includes:

• $41,283.22 from the Class of 1970 for student scholarships;
• $149,603.34 from the Class of 1973, 50^th reunion, for its endowed scholarship fund;
• $52,500 from the Class of 1978 for student scholarships; and
• $38,000 from the class of 1988 for student scholarship.

Additionally, the class of 1983 was recognized for its consistent giving for a cumulative total over the past 40 years of $550,220.04.

During Founder’s Day Convocation on Oct. 20, the Glenn family presented $183,000 to thunderous applause from the audience. Of that amount, $125,000 will go toward the William B. and Helen S. Glenn Endowed Scholarship. The remaining will be used to support the renovation of Hauser Hall, the future site of the music department.

Alumnus Kristopher Glenn made the presentation alongside his mother, Pamela Glenn, also an alumna, and on behalf of his aunt, Angie Glenn, in her absence. 

“We are delighted to pay tribute to their parents and my grandparents, Deacon William B. Glenn and Pastor Helen Glenn, honoring the legacy they left behind with this gift,” Kristopher Glenn said. “They instilled in us first a love for God and a deep appreciation for the healing power of music, and for the transformative power of education. It is our hope that this contribution will assist the dedicated and brilliant students of the university choir, supporting their artistic aspirations and broader academic pursuits.”

Regina Cason, president of the WSSU National Alumni Association (NAA), also presented $65,000 at Founder’s Day for the WSSU NAA Scholarship.

WSSU Chancellor Dr. Anthony Graham said he was delighted to accept these gifts on behalf of the university family. “I applaud the loyalty and commitment of our alumni and thank each of them for supporting the genius of our learners at Winston-Salem State University.”

“We are grateful for the passion and generosity that these alumni have shown to their alma mater through giving and service,” said Dr. LaTanya Afolayan, vice chancellor for university advancement. “I hope that we can continue to motivate more alumni to come forward in this way. We encourage all of our 30,000 alumni to give back and support student success at WSSU.” 

At the annual Dr. Alex Johnson Education Scholarship Luncheon on Oct. 19, Johnson, class of 1971, was recognized for his continuous sponsorship of the luncheon that supports education majors and recognizes outstanding alumni.

During this homecoming, there were two anniversary group milestones. WSSU’s Nursing Department celebrated 70 years of nursing and physical therapy celebrated 30 years.

Nursing announced the establishment of a new fund, the WSSU Nursing 70^th Anniversary Celebration Fund, which will support professional development of nursing faculty up to $2,500, said Andrea Jenkins, interim assistant vice chancellor for development. Physical therapy also announced a new endowed scholarship to honor their 30 years of existence, she said.

“Thanks to all of the class reunions and anniversary groups for connecting and supporting the university through engagement and scholarships,” said Thesha Woodley, director of alumni engagement. “The energy and attendance at homecoming were overwhelming. We look forward to seeing all alumni at homecoming 2024.”