Giving
A Season of Progress: Celebrating WSSU’s Achievements Together
December 03, 2024
As I reflect on my first months as Chancellor of Winston-Salem State University, I am inspired by the incredible accomplishments of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Homecoming was a highlight of my time here. It was incredible to watch generations of the Ramily come together to celebrate all that is wonderful about WSSU.
WSSU announces new university advancement leadership
November 27, 2024
Winston-Salem State University’s new advancement leadership team is poised to enhance alumni and community engagement, as well as philanthropic contributions. Kevan Turman is the new vice chancellor for University Advancement; and John D. Kirby Jr. is assistant vice chancellor.
Alumni donate nearly $300K during homecoming
November 22, 2024
This year’s homecoming was not only marked by excitement, merriment, pomp and circumstance, but it was also a testament to the generosity of alumni. One of the highlights of homecoming weekend was the announcement of this year’s alumni giving, which was a total of $287,963.97.
WSSU emergency personnel deployed to UNC Asheville to help with hurricane aftermath
September 30, 2024
Winston-Salem State University Office of Emergency Management (OEM) personnel have been deployed to UNC Asheville to assist in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene while the WSSU campus holds a drive to help peer institutions impacted by the storm. Jason Stogner, director of OEM, was deployed on Sept. 28, and Sarah Isom, assistant director, left Sept. 30.
City of Winston-Salem proclaims Sept. 27 as Winston-Salem State University Day
September 25, 2024
The City of Winston-Salem has officially proclaimed Friday, September 27, 2024, as “Winston-Salem State University Day.” Mayor Allen Joines presented Winston-Salem State University Chancellor Bonita Brown with the proclamation at the meeting of the City Council on September 16.WSSU graduate Jeremiah Erby establishes $10K annual scholarship
August 08, 2024
Winston-Salem State University alumnus Jeremiah Erby learned an important concept from his experience with the University of Chicago that inspired him to give back to his alma mater.
WSSU receives donation from Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation
June 26, 2024
Winston-Salem State University’s food pantry has received $1,500 from the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation to help nourish neighbors experiencing hunger. The donation will help supply non-perishable food, toiletries, personal hygiene items and other needed supplies to the Allegacy Federal Credit Union Student Resource Center at WSSU.
WSSU alumnus establishes endowed scholarship fund that honors three entities
May 02, 2024
A Winston-Salem State University alumnus is giving back to his college and helping his high school in the process. Dr. Clayton Scott of Statesville, a 1976 graduate of WSSU, has established a scholarship to help students from Statesville High School to further their education at his alma mater.
WSSU Foundation to host inaugural Simon G. Atkins gala April 20
April 05, 2024
The Winston-Salem State University Foundation will honor several recipients for education, community business and philanthropy at its inaugural Simon Green Atkins Foundation Gala to be held at 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, at the Benton Convention Center in downtown Winston-Salem.Allegacy donates nearly $150K to expand WSSU’s food pantry, clothes closet
March 26, 2024
Winston-Salem State University’s (WSSU) food pantry and career closet is combining into a single larger space to better serve students, thanks to the generous grants from Allegacy Federal Credit Union.WSSU junior is first recipient of motorsports scholarship that aims to diversify the industry
January 18, 2024
Ask Virgil Bryant what he likes about motorsports racing and without hesitation he starts to rattle off: it’s the smell of the fuel, the revving of the engines, the squealing of the tires, the drivers – everything. Equally important, he said it was the most fun he had in years when he attended his first NASCAR race.
WSSU Nursing Honor Society receives international recognition for chapter excellence in outreach, leadership development
December 06, 2023
Winston-Salem State University’s Rho Lambda Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing was awarded the International Chapter Key Award for its excellence in service, community outreach and leadership development at the 47th Biennial Convention.Phi Beta Sigma presents check from Sleep Out
December 06, 2023
The Delta Alpha Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. presents a $1,300 check to Samaritan Ministries for its annual Penny Campaign. The funds were raised during the fraternity's 27th Annual Homeless Awareness Week held on the campus of Winston-Salem State University.
Alumnus Oscar Ball III giving back one game at a time
November 21, 2023
Oscar Ball III, Winston-Salem State University Class of 2009, is the creator of the 4th Quarter Scholarship Fundraiser. The event is a basketball game between current WSSU students and alumni and is held on the Sunday after each homecoming at the C.E. Gaines Center.
WSSU’s Global Understanding class helping homeless for the holidays with actions and words
November 09, 2023
Healthcare Management’s Global Understanding Class will be collecting items for gift bags through Nov. 15 to be presented to the homeless population. The bags will be delivered to the Samaritan Ministry on Nov. 17.
WSSU homecoming marked by gathering and giving as alumni donate more than half a million dollars
October 25, 2023
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).WSSU seeks 1,000 donors for annual Day of Giving Sept. 28
September 20, 2023
What will be your motivation for participating in Winston-Salem State University’s annual Day of Giving on Sept. 28, Founder’s Day, as the institution celebrates its 131st birthday.
The Prince David and Nancy Patterson Jernigan Endowed Scholarship Fund
September 19, 2023
The couple, Prince David and Nancy Patterson Jernigan, both members of the WSSU Class of ’73, served and retired from extensive careers in public education; have raised tens of thousands of dollars for their alma mater over a span of 40 years; and most recently, established the Prince David and Nancy Patterson Jernigan Endowed Scholarship Fund.
WSSU honors distinguished young alumni at the Forty Under 40 Class of 2023 awards ceremony
May 16, 2023
Winston-Salem State University recently honored the Forty Under 40 Class of 2023. These accomplished young alumni personify the WSSU mission of “Enter to Learn. Depart to Serve.”WSSU Foundation appoints new officers, members to its board of directors
January 17, 2023
The board’s mission is to foster and promote the growth, progress, and general well-being of the university and to support the financial needs of WSSU students.WSSU ranks high on national lists in 2022-23
November 30, 2022
Winston-Salem State University ranks high on a diverse group of national lists, especially in the areas of value, affordability, and student success.
Here is a list of some of WSSU’s notable rankings for 2022-2023.
WSSU retools its campus with a grant from Home Depot
November 01, 2022
The campus of Winston-Salem State University has become even more beautiful, thanks to a $20,000 grant from the Home Depot Retool Your School initiative. Home Depot is dedicated to giving back to the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to honor what HBCUs bring to their communities “a strong foundation, renewed purposed and distinctive character.”
2020: A year of perseverance at WSSU
December 16, 2020
As the first year of this new decade comes to an end, here’s a look back at some of the year’s most memorable WSSU news stories.
WSSU receives $30 million gift from Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott
December 15, 2020
WSSU receives $30 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
WSSU raises $3.3 million for student financial aid
December 11, 2020
WSSU’s Million Dollar Match campaign exceeded its $2 million goal by more than 60 percent - providing almost $3.4 million for student scholarships.WSSU celebrates new Heritage Society inductees with virtual ceremony
December 07, 2020
WSSU welcomed over 60 new Heritage Society members during a virtual induction ceremony on Dec. 3.
WSSU rolls past NCCU in HBCUniVersus giving challenge
September 23, 2020
WSSU raises more than $32,000 in three hours during HBCUniVersus virtual giving challenge with North Carolina Central University.WSSU offers Ram Relief funds to students affected by COVID-19
April 08, 2020
WSSU offers Ram Relief funds to students affected by COVID-19WSSU ranks high in giving during 2019 SECC campaign
January 17, 2020
WSSU faculty, staff and administrators raised $33,040 during the annual State Employees Combined Campaign (SECC), nearly $13,000 more than last year.
Scholarship donation creates lasting legacy for Durham couple
December 18, 2019
A conference room in Hill Hall is now named in honor of alumni donors Chris and Gwen Wilson in September. Here are eight questions with Chris Wilson '83.WSSU: A decade of progress
December 12, 2019
The last decade has seen incredible milestones at WSSU. Here are some of the highlights from 2010 to today.
Alumna helping WSSU students see the world
November 27, 2019
WSSU Alumna Sloane Holmes inspires international travel with passport sponsorships.Two alumni named to WSSU Foundation board
November 21, 2019
Two university alumni have been named to the Winston-Salem State University Foundation Board of Directors.WSSU Giving Tuesday: 5 Things You Should Know
November 20, 2019
WSSU is again joining thousands of organizations across the globe in participating in Giving Tuesday on Dec. 3. Here are five things you should know.
Happy 127th birthday, WSSU!
September 24, 2019
To celebrate WSSU’s birthday, University Advancement is challenging you to make an online gift of $18.92 to the Million Dollar Match Endowed Scholarship Fund. All gifts will be doubled.Ramily, ESPN honor Stephen A. Smith
September 20, 2019
ESPN "First Take" celebrates HBCU Week with a live show featuring the Red Sea of Sound, and WSSU surprises alumnus Stephen A. Smith with a scholarship.
WSSU launches Million Dollar Match fundraiser
September 12, 2019
A donor will match every dollar contributed or pledged for need-based endowed scholarships – up to $1 million – between now and Dec. 31.Million Dollar Match: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
September 11, 2019
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about WSSU's Million Dollar Match fundraiser.Forty Under 40 alumni class raises $54,000 for scholarships
April 18, 2019
The alumni honorees gave back, raising more than $54,000 for scholarships for WSSU students, a record for the event.Chris Paul Family Foundation makes $50,000 donation to WSSU Athletics Team 250
April 11, 2019
A $50,000 donation from The Chris Paul Family Foundation is helping Winston-Salem State University Athletics move closer to its spring fundraising goal.Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation supports WSSU students
April 08, 2019
For nearly 40 years, the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation has supported WSSU students through its scholarship program.
Sisterhood: Swing Phi Swing celebrates 50 years at WSSU
April 01, 2019
The founders of Swing Phi Swing, along with hundreds of members of the organization returned to WSSU to commemorate the 50th anniversary and to dedicate a monument at the spot where the organization first started in 1969.Food Lion restocks WSSU’s student food pantry
February 22, 2019
WSSU student volunteers went to work on Tuesday, Feb. 19, restocking the shelves of the pantry, which provides in-need students with healthy, culturally appropriate emergency foods.$100,000 SECU Foundation grant will help students pursue internships
February 15, 2019
For the third consecutive year, WSSU will partner with the SECU Foundation to provide financial support for students to pursue internships.Miss WSSU competing for Miss CIAA 2019
February 06, 2019
You can help Miss Winston-Salem State University Christina Harris in her quest to become the next Miss CIAA and also support the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina.WSSU Foundation welcomes 8 new board members
February 05, 2019
WSSU Foundation announces eight new members to the Board of Directors.
Singing Rams keep Faith alive
January 31, 2019
After Faith Webber '17 passed away in a car accident, Singing Rams alumni rallied to keep her memory alive. An alumni scholarship that supports choir members has been renamed in honor of Webber.SECC update: WSSU raises nearly $28,000 for charities
January 24, 2019
WSSU's faculty and staff donated nearly $28,000 for charities through the 2018 North Carolina State Employees Combined Campaign or SECC.YAC announces 2019 Forty Under 40 inductees
January 17, 2019
Alumni honorees will be recognized at a gala at the Benton Convention Center in downtown Winston-Salem on Saturday, April 13.Golden LEAF Foundation president visits WSSU
January 17, 2019
Winston-Salem State University students met with Golden LEAF Foundation President Dan Gerlach during a campus luncheon on Monday, Jan. 14.WSSU Heritage Society inducts 17 new members
January 10, 2019
WSSU welcomed 17 new Heritage Society members during an induction ceremony on Dec. 4.
Mom finds success in WSSU’s healthcare management program
December 20, 2018
Courtney Johnson, who has two young daughters, juggled full-time employment – working third shift – along with her responsibilities as a mother. She earned her degree in healthcare management in December.$100,000 gift helps bridge the gap at WSSU
December 13, 2018
The Dr. Paul and Marcia Meis Graduation Fund will provide need-based scholarships for up to 40 students over the next three years.WSSU Giving Tuesday raises record $87,000
December 05, 2018
The WSSU Foundation has set a record for one-day giving for the university, raising more than $87,000 in 24 hours.2018 SECC employee giving campaign is underway
November 08, 2018
Winston-Salem State University employees are once again being asked to give back through the annual State Employees Combined Campaign (SECC), which runs through Dec. 7.WSSU wins $30,000 community garden through nationwide recycling competition
October 30, 2018
Student Miranda Legg collected more than 5,000 beauty and personal care empties to win national competition through Garnier.WSSU establishes Ram Relief Fund in response to Hurricane Florence
September 19, 2018
As North Carolina works to recover from the devastating effects of Hurricane Florence, WSSU has established an emergency grant program to support students who have financial needs as a result of the storm.WSSU receives national HEED Award for diversity
September 17, 2018
WSSU is the only HBCU to win the 2018 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.Ram family remembers Lorraine Morton ’38
September 11, 2018
Lorraine Hairston Morton ’38, a trailblazer who became the first African-American mayor of Evanston, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, passed away on Sept. 8.WSSU occupational therapy department explores 3D printing
July 02, 2018
The Occupational Therapy Department at WSSU is examining 3D printing through a new transformative curriculum project.Forsyth Medical Center Volunteer Auxiliary Board creates scholarship for nursing students
July 02, 2018
The scholarship will provide $1,250 per semester for five Bachelor of Science in Nursing students in their final year or semester of study.New WSSU license plates hit the road
July 02, 2018
After more than 20 years, the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles has unveiled a new look for WSSU’s license plates that features the fierce new WSSU Ram mascot logo.WSSU Golf Classic raises more than $40,000 for scholarships
June 26, 2018
The WSSU Foundation welcomed 133 golfers for the 18th Annual WSSU Golf Classic, raising $40,340 for student scholarships.Chancellor Robinson featured in social mobility e-book
June 21, 2018
Chancellor Elwood L. Robinson is one of four higher-education leaders featured in a new e-book that offers best practices for student success and social mobility.Dr. LaTanya Afolayan named vice chancellor for advancement at WSSU
June 14, 2018
Dr. LaTanya Afolayan, senior director of planning and major giving at Norfolk State University, has been named vice chancellor for University Advancement at Winston-Salem State University.
New master plan supports growth, campus life at WSSU
June 11, 2018
Architects have unveiled a long-term vision for WSSU’s campus that supports growth and offers enhanced amenities for students.Emergency grant program gives WSSU students an extra boost
May 02, 2018
A $50,000 gift from a Winston-Salem family is helping WSSU expand its emergency grant fund, which helps students who need assistance that cannot be provided through financial aid.Video: Much to love about April at WSSU
May 01, 2018
April in review: WSSU News takes a look back at some of the big events.Blue Cross NC announces $1 million investment in WSSU's Division of Nursing
April 16, 2018
WSSU will use the investment for scholarships to address access to care and nursing shortages, and to enhance the division’s technology infrastructure.WSSU’s graduate programs receive $2.4 million boost
March 01, 2018
A federal grant will provide scholarships and support for graduate students, helping to increase the number of African Americans in STEM and allied health graduate programs.Family Fare invests in entrepreneurship at WSSU
February 27, 2018
Family Fare Convenience Stores is investing in entrepreneurship with a $50,000 matching gift to the Winston-Salem State University Foundation.Robinson: Alumni support critical to HBCU success
February 20, 2018
WSSU Chancellor Elwood L. Robinson participated in UNC-TV’s “Black Issues Forum Special Presentation: HBCU Legacy and Leadership” that aired on Feb. 19.
SECC drive raises $20,743, surpasses goals
February 09, 2018
WSSU faculty, staff and administrators again stepped up to help those in need, donating $20,743 during the annual State Employees Combined Campaign (SECC).Rams mobile clinic expands services, hours
February 02, 2018
Starting in January, the Rams Know H.O.W. Mobile Clinic, a service of WSSU’s Center of Excellence for the Elimination of Health Disparities (CEEHD), began offering free expanded clinical services to residents in East Winston.A look back at the top 10 of 2017
December 19, 2017
As Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) closes the book on its 125th year, WSSU News is taking a look at the top 10 news stories of the year.SECC employee giving campaign underway
November 16, 2017
WSSU employees are once again being asked to give back through the annual State Employees Combined Campaign or SECC.HBCU study: WSSU’s annual economic impact is $233 million
November 14, 2017
Continually ranked among the top investments for college students, Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is also a major economic engine in the local and regional economy. WSSU is responsible for pumping more than $233 million into the North Carolina economy, according to a study commissioned by UNCF.Gift from Reynolds American supports WSSU’s 125th anniversary
October 27, 2017
WSSU has received a $25,000 gift from Reynolds American to support the university’s 125th anniversary.
AKA donates $10,000 for WSSU scholarship
October 16, 2017
The donation, through the sorority’s scholarship and Think HBCU programs, will benefit students majoring in education or mass communications.WSSU celebrates 125 years with events throughout September
September 06, 2017
Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is readying for a celebration 125 years in the making. The month of September is an opportunity for WSSU to share the university's historic milestones and achievements and also look to the future.
New director of alumni engagement named at WSSU
August 09, 2017
Isaac Moore has joined WSSU as the director of alumni engagement for the Division of Advancement. Moore comes to WSSU with a background in both higher-education and corporate management.
New team leads WSSU events
July 21, 2017
As WSSU commemorates its 125th anniversary, a new team is in place to help guide the celebration.
Averill Foundation donation to support WSSU virtual hospital
June 15, 2017
The School of Health Sciences at WSSU has received a $15,000 donation from the Averill Foundation to support simulation training.
WSSU Golf Classic raises $45,000 for scholarships
May 04, 2017
The Winston-Salem State University Foundation welcomed 100 golfers for the 17th Annual WSSU Golf Classic, raising $45,571 for student scholarships.WSSU YAC celebrates ‘Forty Under 40’ inductees
April 22, 2017
The WSSU Young Alumni Council celebrated young alumni and raised money for WSSU students at the Forty Under 40 Alumni Awards Gala on Saturday, April 8, at the Benton Convention Center.AT&T executives, WSSU faculty join forces to support student success
April 18, 2017
WSSU faculty learned from AT&T executives how skills taught in the classroom help to prepare students to enter the workplace.WSSU receives $250,000 gift, 5-year commitment from Brenner family
March 09, 2017
The Winston-Salem State University Foundation has received a $250,000 gift from Mike and Wendy Brenner that will create a distinguished faculty position in the College of Arts, Sciences, Business and Education.
WSSU awards surprise scholarships to 26 seniors
March 08, 2017
Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) trustees, Foundation board members and alumni visited high schools across North Carolina, surprising seniors with the news that they have received one of WSSU’s most prestigious scholarships.
WSSU, Islamic Relief USA partner to help patients in need
February 14, 2017
School of Health Sciences has been awarded a $47,000 grant from Islamic Relief Society USA (IRUSA) that will help improve and expand the free services that are provided at the school’s physical therapy and occupational therapy community clinics, held at the Community Care Center in Winston-Salem.Toyota Financial Services donates $10,000 to WSSU
January 23, 2017
Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) has received a $10,000 scholarship donation from Toyota Financial Services (TFS) in honor of the life and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Educator's estate will provide scholarships for WSSU students
January 11, 2017
Throughout his career, Dr. Casey Jones ’55 made an impact on the lives of students.
14 inducted into Heritage Society
January 03, 2017
Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) inducted 14 new members into the Heritage Society, established to honor individuals who have created a lasting legacy at the university by establishing an endowed fund or included the university in their estate plans.
Food Lion restocks WSSU food pantry
December 13, 2016
Food Lion Feeds is again supporting Winston-Salem State University students through donations to the Rams Helping Hands Food Pantry.
Support WSSU students while shopping on Amazon
December 12, 2016
At no cost to you, Amazon will donate .5 percent of the price of eligible purchases toward the Winston-Salem State University Foundation through AmazonSmile.
WSSU exceeds giving expectations for SECC campaign
December 07, 2016
The Winston-Salem State University community has a long tradition of giving back to the community and helping those in need. That spirit of serving others was never more on display than during the 2016 State Employees Combined Campaign (SECC). Since the beginning of the fall semester, faculty, staff and students have been asked to help those in need in our community. Every time, the Ram family stepped up to meet the challenge.
WSSU Giving Tuesday campaign raises $48,000
December 01, 2016
For the second consecutive year, Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) has set another record for Giving Tuesday, raising more than $48,000 in 24 hours.
AT&T supports gap scholarship program
November 16, 2016
AT&T has awarded Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) $26,000 that will provide scholarships to help students stay on track and graduate.
BB&T program building future leaders
September 26, 2016
When Zipporah Foster, a senior at Winston-Salem State University, interviewed for a research position at the university, she says she was prepared for any question, even the dreaded, “What is your biggest weakness?”
BB&T pledges $125,000 in honor of Foundation board member
August 08, 2016
Winston-Salem State University announced today BB&T has given $125,000 to the Winston-Salem State University Foundation for academic scholarships for students. The gift will be used to create the Cynthia A. Williams Endowed Scholarship for undergraduates who have declared a major in biology, chemistry, computer science, or mathematics.