WSSU alumni donate $22K to College of Business and Entrepreneurship Financial Planning Program

Three proud alumni – Christopher Wilson, Class of ’83, Denis Wilson, Class of ’85, and Cheryl Basnight, Class of ’83 – have made a meaningful investment in the future of Winston-Salem State University students.

The alumni presented a check for $22,000 to WSSU’s College of Business and Entrepreneurship to support student scholarships, high-impact learning opportunities and expanded engagement experiences.

The gift will directly benefit the college’s Financial Planning Program, one of only a few of its kind among historically Black colleges and universities. The program equips students with essential life skills, such as managing personal finances, creating budgets and developing investment strategies, tools that empower them to build sustainable wealth and financial confidence.

“So many of our young people leave college with no idea how to secure their financial future,” said Christopher Wilson, WSSU alumnus. “The program at WSSU ensures that our students are prepared to face finances head-on and feel confident in their abilities to soundly manage their money.”

Wilson and his fellow alumni emphasized that this donation represents only the beginning of their renewed commitment to WSSU and its students.

Wilson owns several H&R Block stores as well as a NC License Plate facility. He was SGA president during his time at WSSU and is a member of the WSSU Foundation Board. His brother, Denis, who was Senior Class president, owns the Denis M. Wilson Insurance Agency and is a successful agent for State Farm Insurance. Basnight works in financial services.

“My goal is to begin the rebuilding process for the College of Business and Entrepreneurship,” said Dr. Kenny Holt, dean of the college. “To do so, we must be connected with our alumni and our greater business community. I am so thankful for these alumni who have made such a bold statement with their support of the college. It is my hope that they have inspired others to give to such an impactful cause.”

Building Future Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurship and financial literacy are integral to WSSU’s mission to prepare graduates who lead, innovate and make lasting contributions to their communities. Many WSSU business graduates are choosing to remain in the Triad region to start their own businesses, helping drive local economic growth and fostering a spirit of enterprise.

“The donation from these alumni is not just about supporting students, it’s about building future entrepreneurs,” Holt said. “Their investment is helping to shape the next generation of business leaders who will make an impact in North Carolina and beyond.”

Gifts like this one reflect the strength of WSSU’s alumni network and its ongoing commitment to student success. Alumni and friends of the university who wish to support the College of Business and Entrepreneurship can make a donation by visiting  Donate Now - Winston-Salem State University. Select Operations - School of Business and Economics Fund in the dropdown menu.