Elizabeth City State University - Founders Day Scholarship Gala XVI

OCCASION

MASTER OF CEREMONIES

GREETINGS

Dr. Sadie Johnson Carter ’72, Gala Co-Chair

DeJuan P. Hoggard, ABC11 News Anchor/Reporter

WELCOME

CHAIR, THE ECSU FOUNDATION BOARD

Mrs. Kimrey Rhinehardt, Chairman, ECSU Foundation

Dr. Karrie G. Dixon, Chancellor

Mr. James W. Cherry, II ’96, President, ECSU National Alumni Association

Dear Viking Family:

Welcome to the Elizabeth City State University Foundation Gala XVI! On behalf of my fellow Board members, please accept our sincere thanks for supporting this important event

INVOCATION

Rev. Jerry Spruell, ’76, ECSU Foundation Board Member

Dinner

INTRODUCTION OF CHANCELLOR’S LEGACY AWARD HONOREES

Dr. Eyualem Abebe

Ulysses Bell, J.D. ’65

Dr. Saundra Sellars Copeland ’71

Virginia Lawrence Houston

Tony E. Lassiter ’86

Senator Bob Steinberg

IMPACT STATEMENT Mr. Dorian Record, President, Student Government Association

IMPACT STATEMENT

Mrs. Lydia Daniel and Senator Warren Daniel

CLOSING REMARKS Mrs. Diana Gardner, Gala Co-Chair

Dr. Gary L. Brown, Interim Executive Director for the ECSU Foundation

We join Chancellor Dixon, the Board of Trustees, the Board of Visitors, the ECSU National Alumni Association, Incorporated, and the entire Viking family in the persistent pursuit of forging a bright future for Elizabeth City State University I often think of Hugh Cale, Peter Weddick Moore, and John Henry Bias and their dream for this University What would our founders say of our legacy thus far? I believe that they would say “well done, good and faithful Vikings But the dream is not finished The dream is never finished We can be more We can do more Your community needs you to forge ahead with haste and build a greater legacy ”

The ECSU Foundation raised $3 26 Million in private gifts in fiscal year 2022 This is a remarkable achievement for the Viking family But we can do more We can build better relationships We can invite new partners into the Viking family We can share the story of this extraordinary university farther and wider I am excited to participate in this university’s legacy

Again, thank you for your investment in Elizabeth City State University The return on your investment is substantial The evidence is overwhelming Our student body is growing and thriving Our faculty is inspiring and innovative Elizabeth City State University is THE place to be I am proud to be part of the Viking Family

Have an enjoyable evening,

Kimrey W. Rhinehardt Chairman

The Elizabeth City State University Foundation Board

THE CHANCELLOR GREETINGS

Greetings ECSU Alumni, Faculty, Staff, Students and Esteemed Guests: I extend a heartfelt “Viking Pride” and welcome to each of you for joining us for Elizabeth City State University’s Scholarship Gala XVI We are thrilled to be back together in person commemorating this 132-year-old university and those who support the institution

I am especially proud to congratulate our honorees — an outstanding group that includes ECSU trailblazers and supporters: Eyualem Abebe, Ph D ; Ulysses D Bell, J D , (Class of 1965); Saundra Sellars Copeland, Ph D , (Class of 1971); Ms Virginia Lawrence Houston; Mr Tony E Lassiter, (Class of 1986); and Former N C Senator Bob Steinberg We applaud all your professional accomplishments and your investment in ECSU

We are grateful to all our sponsors and supporters for your generous gifts and contributions which enable ECSU to help students from North Carolina and beyond, “Come to Discover ” and “Leave to Conquer ” Your invaluable dedication to our university helps the university thrive

Mrs Kimrey Rhinehardt, Chair of the ECSU Foundation Board of Directors, and members of the Foundation Board: Thank you for your dedicated service to Elizabeth City State University

Dr Sadie Johnson Carter (Class of 1972) and Mrs Diana Gardner, Gala co-chairs, and the entire Gala Committee: We are thankful for all the work and planning you’ve done over the past several months to make this signature event a success for ECSU

I invite everyone to enjoy an unforgettable evening which honors our past, celebrates the present and paves the way for the future

Sincerely,

GREETINGS

CHAIR, THE ECSU BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Greetings:

On behalf of the Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) Board of Trustees, I welcome you to the 2023 ECSU Founders Day Scholarship Gala Your attendance this evening and strong support reflects our shared commitment to the success of ECSU

A special welcome to our distinguished honorees who have made a tremendous impact on this university, the region, and beyond We celebrate your success this evening and congratulate each of you for your dedication and service!

Thank you to our sponsors for your generous contributions, which will aid our students in realizing their academic goals

The ECSU Board of Trustees also recognizes the outstanding work of the ECSU Foundation Board, Mrs Kimrey Rhinehardt, Chair, and the Scholarship Planning Committee, led by Dr Sadie Carter and Mrs Diana Gardner We appreciate your efforts towards ensuring a fantastic and memorable event

So, let’s enjoy the food, fun and fellowship while realizing that we are difference makers!

With Viking Pride,

Dr. Stephanie D.B. Johnson Chair, ECSU Board of Trustees

Karrie G. Dixon, Ed.D. Chancellor

THE MAYOR, ELIZABETH CITY GREETINGS

DEJUAN P. HOGGARD MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Greetings!

It is indeed my pleasure and honor to offer greetings to those attending the ECSU Foundation Scholarship Gala XVI being held on Saturday, March 11, 2023 On behalf of the City Councilors, our citizens and myself, I would like to take this opportunity to extend a warm welcome to you as you participate in this wonderful occasion

As a proud 1996 graduate of the esteemed ECSU, I am so honored to welcome attendees back to the first in-person event after two years of virtual celebration The City Councilors and I take great pride in this fine institution, and know that the continued success of ECSU will play a significant role in the growth and vitality of our city We salute Elizabeth City State University, and extend our very best wishes for your gala and future!

Again, it is my great pleasure to welcome each of you to this special event I, Kirk Rivers, Class of ‘96, and First Lady, Nina Griffin Rivers, Class of ‘92, are proud to say, “Viking Pride, Viking Pride, Viking Pride!

DeJuan Hoggard joined the ABC11 Eyewitness News team in April 2016 He coanchors weekend evenings for Eyewitness News and reports during the week for Eyewitness News at 4, 5, and 6

As a native of America’s Finest City, San Diego, DeJuan started his journalism career as a host/reporter for his high school’s television news program As a sophomore, he interned at KUSI-TV in San Diego He did “just about everything” during his tenure, from Production Assistant to Master Control Operator to Sports Producer to on-air host for the station’s PPR Plus web-streamed football program His contributions helped KUSI earn many Emmy Awards for the Prep Pigskin Report

Hungry for change, DeJuan was hired as an anchor/reporter for One America News (OAN) launch in 2013 While at OAN, DeJuan anchored the “Early Edition” of One America News He also covered the San Bernardino shootings, national politics, and other breaking news stories

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (Broadcast) and a collateral in Pan-African Studies from California State University Northridge DeJuan earned an MBA in marketing from Ashford University with a perfect GPA He was affectionately nicknamed “Mr Television” by one of his college instructors A name the instructor still calls him to this day

E. Kirk Rivers Mayor, Elizabeth City

DeJuan has two beautiful daughters When DeJuan is not behind the anchor desk or chasing stories around the Triangle, he likes to travel, golf, watch football (Go Dallas Cowboys and USC Trojans!), try new restaurants, and catch matinee movies

DeJuan is a National Association of Black Journalists and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity member

DR. EYUALEM ABEBE CHANCELLOR’S LEGACY AWARD HONOREE

DR. EYUALEM ABEBE continued

Dr Abebe lives in Chesapeake, VA, with his wife Elizabeth Woldegiorgis, and the family Pomeranian – Duke He has three children, two daughters – Hewan and Ra-Ey – and an adult son – Eyob

Dr Abebe earned his BSc and MSc degrees from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia, and a second MSc and PhD degrees from Ghent University, Belgium

Dr Eyualem Abebe is a lifelong educator, mentor and academic administrator with more than 30 years of academic service at four higher education institutions in three continents: Africa, Europe and North America Dr Abebe started his career at a teachers’ training college—now Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia, where he served as Department Chair and Research and Publications Officer After receiving his terminal degree from Gent University, Belgium, on full academic scholarship, he worked as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Edinburgh, UK, and Gent University, Belgium, and as a research faculty at the University of New Hampshire prior to joining ECSU Since he joined ECSU in 2006, Dr Abebe has served in various capacities including as graduate and undergraduate program coordinator, the Marshall A Rausch Endowed Distinguished Professor and department chair

Deeply rooted in his own humble beginnings and inspired by the support he himself received, Dr Abebe is passionate about and is profoundly committed to close student mentorship, especially of those economically disadvantaged As such, he has been intentional in securing grants from state and national funding agencies including the US Department of Defense, the National Science Foundation, the US Department of Education, and the NC Department of Health and Human Services amounting to $4 million, a fourth of which went towards his mentoring through research of more than 50 undergraduate and 6 graduate ECSU students Moreover, to expand academic opportunities by enhancing retention and graduation, Dr Abebe has committed his effort for more than a decade to the implementation of effective academic interventions at ECSU

As a globally recognized nematologist, Dr Abebe discovered 28 species new to science and has published extensively (52 peer-reviewed papers, 7 chapters, & edited a book) He takes supporting the broader scientific community seriously: he serves as editor & reviewer to professional journals, reviewer to funding agencies, and serves as research advisor and examiner

In recognition of his efforts, he has received several awards including the University of North Carolina Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching, and the Gent University International Student Association Distinguished Alumnus Award for Professional Achievement In honor of his contribution to the field of nematology, a species is named after him

He is passionate about building a supportive community and giving back; he is a founding member and president since 2016 of the non-profit – Ethiopian Community Association of Hampton Roads, and plays active role in supporting higher education efforts in Ethiopia through his lead role in the non-profit – Alliance for Research, Innovation and Education

CHANCELLOR’S LEGACY AWARD HONOREE

ULYSSES BELL, JD ’65

After graduating from Elizabeth City State College in 1965, Bell relocated to New York City where he earned his master’s degree at Columbia University At the age of 26, he accepted a position as Chairman of the commercial training division at Nkumbi International College in Kabwe, Zambia Nkumbi’s students were adult refugees who were part of the anti-apartheid and liberation movements in Angola, Mozambique, Northern Rhodesia, and South Africa

After returning to the US in 1970, Ulysses began a long career that included earning the Juris Doctor (JD), NCCU School of Law, and a Professional Management Education certificate, UNC-Chapel Hill School of Business Bell was Director of Operations for MDC in Chapel Hill and managed the staff who developed the Human Resource Development (HRD) program that remains a social skills curriculum in a majority of North Carolina’s community colleges

Bell later was Southern Regional Director for the National Rural Center in Washington, DC He was responsible for oversight of the Austin, Texas and Atlanta, Georgia regional offices As a result of rural policy development and program initiatives, Bell was appointed a member of the White House Rural Task Force during President Jimmy Carter’s administration

Bell was one of 13 fundraising consultants from across the US selected to develop the initial $250 million fundraising plan that led to the 2016 opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, DC The names of the consultants are listed in the Congressional Record in the Library of Congress

Fifteen years of Bell’s professional career were devoted to guiding philanthropic and fundraising strategies at HBCU’s: Associate Dean at the School of Business, NCCU; Vice Chancellor for Development, ECSU; Vice

President for Advancement, Bennett College; and Vice President for Advancement, Stillman College In 2003, Bell received the Fundraiser of the Year Award presented by the NC Triad Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP)

Bell is a co-founder and current Board Chair of the River City CDC in Elizabeth City He is a NC licensed Real Estate Broker and Life/Health Insurance agent Bell is also a Life Member of the ECSU Alumni Association, a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, and National Bar Association He was a 3-term member of the Board of Trustees at Lenoir Rhyne College, Hickory, NC

Since 2009, Bell has devoted much of his time to The Bell Group, Inc , a fundraising and marketing firm formed to help guide churches, universities, local governments and other nonprofits with grant seeking and innovative fundraising strategies The Bell Group funded the installation of a 17-panel history of “African-Americans in Aviation” at the STEM complex on the ECSU campus

Bell is married to Dr Dorothy Henderson Bell, an ECSU faculty member They have two daughters, a son, and four grandchildren

CHANCELLOR’S LEGACY AWARD HONOREE

DR. SAUNDRA SELLARS COPELAND ’71

Dr Saundra Sellars Copeland is a retired Associate Professor and former Coordinator for the Master of School Administration Program in the Department of Education, Psychology and Health at Elizabeth City State University, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina She retired in August 2019, after serving at the university since August 2002

Dr Copeland was the 2012-2013 first runner-up recipient of the University of North Carolina Board of Governors’ Teacher of the Year Award She was the 2009-2010 Elizabeth City State University’s Departmental Teacher of the Year (Department of Education), and Chair of the Department of Education from 2005-2009 She previously retired from Chesapeake Public Schools having served for 31 years in Virginia as an assistant principal and teacher

Dr Copeland was an educator for 48 years She believes that education is vital to the success of all mankind Over the years, she has dedicated her professional life to trying to make a positive difference in the lives of others by teaching young children, pre-service teachers, in-service teachers, as well as, working with administrators, parents, and others in diverse communities in the United States and in other countries In all capacities, Dr Copeland demonstrates the importance of helping others She believes that it takes all kinds of people to make this world and that everyone is unique and special

Her vision of education has extended beyond the classroom to the community and the world She has collaborated with her students and with public school teachers and administrators from Elizabeth City, Senegal, and the Dominican Republic to write textbooks, conduct workshops, participate in science competitions, serve as a mentor, and “adopt a school ” As a result, her pre-service teachers won science competitions, school children in Senegal were donated textbooks, and children in the Dominican Republic received a modern playground, school supplies, and school uniforms

In addition to her work as a teacher, Dr Copeland has worked extensively to support children and families in the community This service includes leadership roles in Early Works, Inc , National Silhouettes of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc , and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc In 2005, under her leadership, the Portsmouth Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha received the 2005 Economic Development Challenge Award from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) In 2006, Dr Copeland was the recipient of the Safe Harbor Award in recognition of her efforts to improve the lives of children and families That same year, on behalf of Alpha Kappa Alpha, she received the Stephen H Clarke Academy Educator Appreciation Award for making a significant difference in the academic and social performance of their students In 2007, she was a recipient of the Portsmouth Pan-Hellenic Council Incorporated Award for outstanding contributions in the areas of Education, Social, Economic, and Political Empowerment In 2007, she also received the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc , (Portsmouth Chapter) Award for outstanding contributions in Educational Leadership In 2012, she was a recipient of the Portsmouth Chapter of Delicados, Inc , Black Educators’ Award In 2015 and 2022, she was the recipient of the Portsmouth/Suffolk Silhouettes Chapter, Outstanding Silhouette of the Year Award from the Eastern Province Silhouettes of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc , and in 2018 and 2019, she was the recipient of the Valiant and Ivy Pearls Sponsor Award from Twenty Pearls, Inc , of the Gamma Delta Omega Chapter (Portsmouth, Virginia) of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc In September 2019, Dr Copeland was crowned Gamma Delta Omega’s HBCU’s Contest Queen She served as Captain of the Elizabeth City State University Team (VIKING PRIDE!) In October 2021, she was crowned as the National Alumni Association Ms Alumni (2021-2023), of Elizabeth City State University In March 2022, she was the recipient of the Golden Soror Service Award from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference, of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc , that was submitted by Gamma Delta Omega Chapter, Portsmouth, VA

Dr Copeland is Co-Founder of the Florence H Lee Scholarship Fund at Emanuel A M E Church, Portsmouth, Virginia This scholarship fund was established more than twenty-five years ago in honor of her aunt who raised her, the late Florence H Lee, a retired educator who always emphasized to her and others, the importance of acquiring a college education Over the life of this scholarship, more than 75 young people have received college scholarships In 2017, Dr Copeland established the Dr Saundra Sellars Copeland Scholarship of Merit for a graduating high school senior planning to attend Elizabeth City State University, majoring in Elementary Education or Special Education In

DR. SAUNDRA SELLARS COPELAND ’71 continued

DR. SAUNDRA SELLARS COPELAND ’71 continued

2018, she added two additional Merit Scholarships for Graduate Students The scholarship requirements are aligned with the new mandates for the Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Preparation (CAEP) In addition, these scholarships are presented in collaboration with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc , under Twenty Pearls, Inc , Gamma Delta Omega Chapter (Portsmouth, Virginia), which was established under Dr Copeland’s administration as chapter president of the organization in 2006 Currently, Dr Copeland serves on the Board of Directors for River City Community Development Corporation, in Elizabeth City, NC

Dr Copeland received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Elizabeth City State University (1971), Master of Science Degree in Educational Leadership from Old Dominion University (1982), Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Education (1987) and a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration from Virginia Polytechnic and State University (1998) Dr Copeland received the National Principal Mentor Certification (K-12) from the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) in 2013 and in 2016

Dr Copeland is married to her college sweetheart, Robert Lavinsky Copeland (‘72), and they have two grown daughters, and three grandchildren

CHANCELLOR’S LEGACY AWARD HONOREE

VIRGINIA LAWRENCE HOUSTON

Virginia Lawrence Houston, the oldest of twelve children of Mr Malachi Lawrence, Sr and Mrs Julia Walker Lawrence, was reared in Macon Georgia, remaining through high school Her parents created a lively, hardworking, religiously, and educationally centered household Most activities were centered around church or school High expectations were set for parents and children All twelve children finished high school; all attended college/professional school

Virginia attended Talladega College (BS) in Talladega, AL: she did graduate work at Armstrong State/Savannah State University (MS), Georgia St University and Purdue University She earned certifications in elementary education and middle school education (with concentration in math education), curriculum, gifted education, and teacher mentoring Virginia began her 50-year Career in Public School Education in 1966 in Ft Myers, FL Over a period of five (5) decades, she worked in five (5) different states: Florida (2 years), Alabama (1 year), Indiana (5 years), Georgia (8 years) and North Carolina (34 years, 25 as an educator, 9 on the Board of

Education) She was blessed to be able to do effective teaching of students in grades 1st, 2nd, 4th, 6th and 7th She was selected ECPPS Math Education Teacher of the Year/NC Regional Teacher of the year

In 1984, the Houston’s moved to Elizabeth City, when her husband was appointed V Chancellor of Academic Affairs (ECSU) Virginia began teaching at Sheep Harney Elementary where she taught first, second and sixth grades In 1994, she was appointed as an Instructional Specialist by Dr Joe Peel (Superintendent) In this position, Virginia had the responsibilities of mentoring teachers, aligning state curriculum with teaching practices, school’s testing coordinator, organizing and presenting professional development workshops along with other Instructional Specialists in ECPPS In 1997, Virginia was transferred to P W Moore Elementary where she continued as an Instructional Specialist/Testing Coordinator until her retirement as educator in 2009 She also provided workshops and training for preservice and veteran teachers for ECSU Dept of Education She emphasized effective teaching and developing positive relationships with students She was a contributing author for ECSU’s Textbook Program for Senegal (Africa)

In 2013, Virginia was encouraged to apply for a vacancy on the ECPPS School Board She was unanimously selected Afterward, she was elected two additional four-year terms, a total of nine (9) years on the Board Virginia decided not to seek a term in 2022 At her final Board meeting she said: “I am honored and blessed to have been able to share and promote my desire to help provide the best educational environment where all of our youth could learn and grow and where our administrators and teachers would have what they needed to help fulfill these goals ”

In community, Virginia provided civic, ecumenical and volunteer service She has been president of the Zeta Kappa Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (2006-2010), EC Chapter of Jack and Jill (1998-2004) and EC Chapter of National Epicureans (current); also, an active member of the EC Chapter of Links, Inc , the Corner Stone Missionary Baptist Church, and other groups/activities In 2014, she was honored as a Northeastern NC Educator by NCNW, Inc

Mrs Houston and her spouse of 53 years, Dr Johnny L Houston, are the proud parents of two wonderful daughters, Mave T Houston, PhD and Kaiulani M Houston, PhD, MD; both high school graduates of ECPPS, Mave from Northeastern High and Kaiulani from Pasquotank High

CHANCELLOR’S LEGACY AWARD HONOREE

TONY E. LASSITER ’86

Tony Lassiter is the son of Perlie and Marie Lassiter Tony is a native of Edenton, NC Mr Lassiter presently resides in Raleigh, NC He is a 1981 graduate of John A Holmes High School, Edenton, NC

Mr Lassiter pursued his Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice at Elizabeth City State University After graduating, Mr Lassiter was employed with the NC Department of Corrections in Raleigh, NC He held the positions of a corrections officer and certified general instructor Later, Mr Lassiter was employed with Family Resource Center South Atlantic as a facilitator and Dropout Prevention Program Coordinator at Mary E Phillips High School FRCSA afforded Mr Lassiter the opportunity of working with youth He volunteered to mentor youth in the community and was the church choir director for the youth

Mr Lassiter is a true and dedicated supporter of his alma mater He has served in various leadership capacities in the ECSU National Alumni Association: Second Vice President for four years and South Region Director In the Raleigh Durham Wake Alumni Chapter, Mr Lassiter has served as President, Vice President, Student Recruitment Chair and Membership Chair

Mr Lassiter received numerous awards: The Tom Joyner’s Hardest Working Alumni Award in 2005, Life Member of ECSU National Alumni Association in 1999, RDW Membership Drive Award (100 recruited), and 2021 Second Runner-up for Mr Alumni

In 2002, Mr Lassiter founded/established the 1891 Club The 1891 Club was inaugurated for the sole purpose of raising money for scholarships and student assistance To date, the club has raised over sixty thousand dollars ($60,000) Mr Lassiter is the creator and originator of ECSU’s beloved slogan, “VIKING PRIDE, VIKING PRIDE, VIKING PRIDE ” The coined slogan began in 2004 when ECSU was the school of the month at the CIAA Mr Lassiter made a guest appearance on the Tom Joyner Show in Raleigh, NC The slogan can be heard throughout the university, and the rest is history

Mr Lassiter is married to Jacqueline Sherard Lassiter They have five children and seventeen grandchildren

SENATOR BOB STEINBURG CHANCELLOR’S LEGACY AWARD HONOREE

I was born in 1948 in Oswego, N Y where I attended public schools, graduating from High School in 1966 I received my Associate degree from SUNY Coming in 1969 and my BS Degree in Marketing from Upper Iowa University in 1990

I married Marie Steinburg in 1972 We have 2 grown sons, Bobby Steinburg born 1975 and Greg Steinburg born 1978 We also have two grandchildren - Julia, age 13 and Anthony, age 9

My professional working career has been primarily in sales and marketing, employed by Russell Stover Candies and Keepsake Diamonds to mention two

Marie and I left upstate NY to relocate to Richmond, VA in 1977 where we remained until 2005 when we relocated to Edenton, NC where we currently reside

In 2012 I was elected to the NC House of Representatives, serving three terms representing northeastern NC In 2018 I was elected to the NC Senate where I served until retiring July 31, 2022

My legislative accomplishments are in part highlighted by successfully fighting to keep ECSU open when they were threatened with closure a few short years ago

At the same time I continue advocating strongly for additional budget appropriations (investments) that have, along with NC Promise Tuition Program and the outstanding leadership at this University, helped turn this great institution around Thanks be to God!

I am honored and humbled to be a recipient of the Chancellor’s 2023 Legacy Award Thank you Viking Pride!! Viking Pride!! Viking Pride!!

SCHOLARSHIP GALA SPONSORS continued

SCHOLARSHIP GALA SPONSORS

John H. Bias Society Sponsor – $25,000

ECSU National Alumni Association, Incorporated

A. P. Lester

Atlanta Metro

Bertie County

Down East

Dr. Herman G. Cooke

E. A. Johnson

Elizabeth City Area

Eva J. Lewis

Goldsboro-Wayne

Greater Charlotte Chapter

Greater Triad

J. T. Doles

John H. Bias

Kinston-Lenoir

Peninsula

Portsmouth

Raleigh-Durham-Wake

Richmond

Roanoke-Chowan

Robert E. Harvey Tri-State

Rosa B. Riddick

Tri-County

Virginia Beach

Washington County

Washington, DC Metro

William T. Bowser, Sr.

Wilmington

Harold Trigg Society Sponsor Tier I: $15,000–$24,999

Harold Trigg Society Sponsor Tier II: $10,000–$14,999

T-Mobile

Sidney D. Williams Society Sponsor: $5,000–$9,999

Mr James J Hennessy

Mr Emmanuel Harris and Mrs Jeri Harris

Walter N. Ridley Society Sponsor: $2,500–$4,999

Elizabeth City-Pasquotank County Airport Authority

TowneBank

Dr Joy and CAPT Anthony W Swain (ret)

Dr Claudie J Mackey and Dr Lenora J Jarvis-Mackey

Carolina Furnishing + Design

Lenovo

First Citizens Bank

Chancellor’s Society Sponsor: $1,000–$2,499

Dr Karrie G Dixon and First Gentleman Devi D Dixon

Mrs Lydia Daniel and Senator Warren Daniel

Dr Gary L Brown

Dr Farrah J Ward

NuCor Steel - Hertford

Mr Walter Hamlin

Dr Sadie Johnson-Carter

Ms Bernadine Cobb

Mrs Diana Gardner and Mr Douglas S Gardner

Rev Jerry W Spruell

The Dereck Whittenburg Foundation

Mr Ernest G Murphrey

Mr Alyn Goodson

Retired Col Randy B Bell and Mrs Carol D Bell

Ms Barbara Lee

River City Alphas - Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc

Dr Saundra S Copeland and Mr Robert L Copeland

Progressive Business Solutions

Tanglewood Subway

Ms Lisa R McClinton

Mr Tracey A Tullie PhD

Mr Greg Rhinehardt and Mrs Kimrey Rhinehardt

Captain Warren ’97 and Mrs Angela Judge

Dr Stephanie D Johnson

Mr Johnnie B Walton

Ms Jacqueline Whittenburg

Ms Ziner J Alexander

Dr Shirley Turnage

Dean’s Gold Circle Society – $500–$999

The Links, Incorporated - Elizabeth City (NC) Chapter

Carpet Connection & The Tile Shop

Mr Elston R Howell and Mrs Lisa Howell

1st Atlantic Surety Company

Ms Onyel G Bhola

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc Elizabeth City Alumnae Chapter

Mr Snowden’s Pest Control

Spoken 4 Communications LLC

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Iota Nu Zeta Chapter Fairfield Inn

Mr Timothy R Rodgers, Sr

Ms Barbaina M Houston-Black

Mr Tommy Cox and Mrs Ethel F Cox

Ms Lisa J Westbrook

Mrs Pamela B Hunter and Mr Julius T Hunter

Cooper Hurley, PLLC

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc Zeta Kappa Omega Chapter

Dr Jeanette H Evans and Mr Charles B Evans

North Carolina Coastal Federation

Mrs Susie Sharpless Hodges

Mr Charles C Davis and Mrs Josie B Davis

Dr Kevin J Wade

Harvest Christian Fellowship

Union Chapel Missionary Baptist Church

Rev Dr Ricky L ’77 and Mrs Shelva W Banks

St Stephen Missionary Baptist Church

Mr Melvin Norman

Mr James Dubose

Mr Andre Snowden

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc Elizabeth City Alumnae Chapter

Union Chapel Missionary Baptist Church

Mitchell Funeral Care and Cremation

Mr Timothy Minor

Mrs Marilene E Dobie

Gala Friend – $375

F & H Print Sign Design LLC

Mr Maurice Smith

Tandem, Inc (McDonald’s)

North Carolina Department of Transportation- Office of HBCU Outreach

The ECSU Foundation, Inc. extends heartfelt thanks to all donors who supported Founders Day Gala XVI. Every gift of every amount is appreciated and helps to advance our mission to provide financial assistance to Viking students. Thank you for partnering with us to forge a bright future for Elizabeth City State University.

CHANCELLOR’S LEGACY AWARD HONOREES ELIZABETH CITY STATE UNIVERSITY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS ELIZABETH CITY STATE UNIVERSITY

Hugh Cale

Jimmy Raymond Jenkins, Ph.D.

2022 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA XV

Dr Sandra Singleton Newsome ’70

Delores Locke McClain ’70

Dr Marcus Newsome ’75

Ernest G Murphrey

Celeste Carr Williams ’64

2021 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA XIV

Mary L Cates ’61

Dr Laura Walton Buffaloe ’65

Brigadier General Richard Harrison ’94

Larry Johnson Sr ’73 and the 1971 CIAA

Championship Football Team

2020 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA XIII

Ziner Johnson Alexander, ’66

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina

Emmanuel D Harris

Dr Ali A Khan

Abdul Sm Rasheed, ’71

Rear Admiral Keith Smith

Ethel Faye Gregory Sutton, ’65

2019 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA XII

Billy C Hines

Norma M James, ’88

Joyce E Long, ’54

Justina M Long, ’54

Barbara Barnes Sutton, ’74

Anthony “Tony” Swain, 82

Johnnie B Walton, ’69

Biggs Cadillac Buick GMC

2018 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA XI

John Shelton Best, ’70

Dr Ronald H Blackmon

Dr Mary Albritton Douglas, ’52

LTC Tyron W Eason (ret), ’86

Andy Hartsfield

Paul A Norman, ’81

Susie Sharpless Hodges ’65

Dr Helen H Muldrow

Honorable Bettie J Parker ’71

2017 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA X

Dr Glen Bowman

Dennis Earl Leary

Dr Richard L Lucas, Jr

Billie Joe Reid, ’70

Estella Hall Simons, ’55

2016 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA IX

(Former ECSU First Ladies)

Lula G Thorpe

Dr Faleese Moore-Jenkins, ’66

LaVera Levels Burnim

Jacqueline Johnson Gilchrist, ’72

Brenda Becton

2015 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA VIII

Gwendolyn D Bowser, ’69

Jeff Dixon

Dr Linda Hayden

Colonel Rodney Haggins, ’87

Dr Darnell Johnson, ’73

Dr Stephanie Bailey Johnson, ’74

Mary Elizabeth Sharpe, ’57

Cecil Perry

Argle Whitfield, ’65

2014 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA VII

Willis Langley, ’70

Willie Stewart, Jr , ’69

Richard Olson

Lieutenant Commander Navin L Griffin, ’00

Dr Shirley Murphy Turnage, ’67

2013 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA VI

Carroll Hurdle, ’66

Norris Earl Francis, ’64

Mike Chandler

Elston Howell, ’88

Congressman G K Butterfield

Commander Warren Judge, ’97

Dr Stephanie Dance-Barnes, ’97

2012 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA V

Norman M Cherry, Sr , ’64

Todd W Tilley, ’95

Patricia Youngblood, ’84

Bishop Kim W Brown

Roger McLean

Mark R Brown, Jr ’95

Dr Lindsey L White

Randy M Jones, ’96

Colonel Warline S Richardson, ’90

2011 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA IV

Reverend Vonner G Horton

Colonel Thurinton W Harvell, Sr ’88

Edna Gray Randolph, ’45

Philip R Johnson

Danny and Carol Flowers

Dr Roger Hathaway, ’72

Leonard Carmichael, ’72

Matthew Lewis, Jr ’64

2010 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

GALA III

Cola Ashe

Dr Helen Marshall Caldwell

The Honorable Melvin Daniels, Jr

Colonel Mechelle Hale, ’88

Wanda Hunt McLean

Jethro Pugh, ’65

Dr Claude M Odom

Frank H Skidmore, Jr

Julius Walker, Jr , ’67

Linwood Williams, ’69

2009 ECSU FOUNDERS DAY GALA II

Dr Charles Cherry, ’63

Dr Claudie Mackey, ’65

The Honorable Annie Ward Mobley, ’63

Dr Dwayne K Stallings

Captain Christopher E Austin, ’85

Colonel Randy Braxton Bell (ret), ’72

Captain Roosevelt R Wright, Jr (ret), ’64

Pedro Holley, Sr , ’74

Dr Johnny L Houston

Melyvn N Riley, ’61

Vonda Reed Riley, ’65

2007 INAUGURAL GALA (No Recognitions)

Founder and Member of the N C General Assembly

Chancellor, 1983–1995

Chancellor Emeritus, 1995–

Peter Weddick Moore, A.M., LL.D.

Principal, 1891–1928

President Emeritus, 1928–1934

John Henry Bias, A.B., LL.D.

President, 1928–1939

Mickey Lynn Burnim, Ph.D.

Chancellor, 1995–2006

Chancellor Emeritus, 2020–Willie James Gilchrist, Ed.D.

Chancellor, 2007–2013

Harold Leonard Trigg, Ed.D.

President, 1939–1945

Sidney David Williams, A.M., D.PED.

President, 1946–1958

President Emeritus 1969–1974

Walter Nathaniel Ridley, Ed.D.

President, 1958–1968

President Emeritus, 1988–1996

Marion Dennis Thorpe, Ph.D.

President, 1968–1972

Chancellor, 1972–1983

Charles L. Becton, J.D.

Interim Chancellor, 2013–2014

Stacey Franklin Jones, Ph.D. Chancellor, 2014–2015

Thomas E. H. Conway, Jr., Ph.D.

Chancellor, 2016–2018

Karrie G. Dixon, Ed.D.

Chancellor, 2018–

ELIZABETH CITY STATE UNIVERSITY

BOARD MEMBERS

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Dr Stephanie D B Johnson, Chair

Dr Tiffany Jones, Vice Chair

Ms Christine Evans, Secretary

Ms Phyllis N Bosomworth

Bishop Kim W Brown

Mr James R Copland, IV

Mr Andy Culpepper

Mr Stephen Friedrich

Ms Jan King Robinson, J D

Mr Johnny Tillett

Mr Paul Tine

Mr Justin L Waddell

BOARD OF VISITORS

Ms Tomica Adams

Dr Melvin T Blackwell

Mrs Jennifer K Congleton

Mr Demetrius Deloatch

Mr James E Ford

Mr Rodney J Hawkins

Dr Linda B Hayden

Ms Ramonda C Kyser

Ms Carolyn Mitchell Miales

Mr Ernie Murphrey

Mr William Nelson

Mr D Cole Phelps, Secretary

Ms Wendy Pierce, Vice Chair

Mr Billie Reid

Mr Bryan Spence, Chair

Mr Taylor Sugg

Mrs Clastrola “Classy” Williams

ECSU FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mrs Kimrey Rhinehardt, Chair

Ms L Chantel Cherry-Lassiter, Vice Chair

Mr James Bell

Ret Col Randy B Bell

Dr Sadie Johnson Carter

Mr James Cherry II, ECSU National Alumni Association

Ms Bernadine A Cobb

Miss Alexis Cowell, Vice President, Student Government Association

Mrs Lydia Daniel

Dr Karrie G Dixon, Chancellor

Mrs Christine Evans, Board of Trustees

Mrs Diana M Gardner

Mr Emmanuel D Harris

Mr Elston Howell

Dr Lenora Jarvis-Mackey, Secretary

Mr Christian Lewis

Ms Lisa McClinton, Vice Chancellor for Business and Finance

Mr Jermaine McKinley, Treasurer

Mr Timothy Minor

Mrs Annalisa Carawan Morgan

Rev Jerry Spruell

Dr Tracey Tullie

Dr Gary Brown, Interim Vice Chancellor for University Advancement and Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

ECSU NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION, INC.

National Officers

Mr James W Cherry, II ’96, President

Dr Sandra S Newsome ’70, 1st Vice President

Mr Michael N Johnson ’96, 2nd Vice President

Mr Melvin Norman ’77, Recording Secretary

Ms Courtnay Jordan ’05, Corresponding Secretary

Mrs Sharonne Sawyer Sutton ’02, Treasurer

Mr James Spence ’64, Sergeant-At-Arms

Vacant, Financial Secretary

Board of Directors

Ms Barbaina Houston-Black ’80, Chair

Mr Timothy Rodgers ’83 Vice Chair

Mr James Cherry, II ’96, President

Dr Karrie G Dixon, Chancellor

Ms Cherelle James ’99

Ms Maryella Ward Leigh ’67

Dr Edward Newsome, Jr ’73

Ms Trequita Overton ’99

Mr Abdul Sm Rasheed ’71, Immediate

Past President

Mr Keith O Richardson ’03

Ms Shalon Hawkins Sharpe ’99

Ms Barbara B Sutton ’74

CONGRATULATIONS

to Saundra Sellars Copeland, Ed.D

2023 Chancellor's Legacy Award Recipient

We are inspired by the standard of excellence you have displayed throughout all facets of your life. You certainly deserve this distinguished honor. May God continue to bless you.

With much love and admiration, Your husband, Robert

Your legacies, Chonita, John, Nicole, Jashon, Nigel and Jalahn

Emmanuel D. and Jeri Harris

Na ves of Camden, North Carolina

"

To whom much is given, much is required"

We Congratulate

Virginia laWrenCe Houston

For Being Honored B y eCsu WitH a lega Cy aWar d For 50 years oF noteWortHy serViCe in puBliC sCHool eduCation.

in our Family, sHe Will alWays

Be loVed and Honored! For sHe is tHat Compass tHat guides us WitH Her loVe, Virtues, and Wisdom! sHe is tHe Wind BeneatH our Wings; yet sHe keeps us all anCHored! We, tHe Houston 3, are Here to CeleBrate WitH Houston numBer 1 !

Virginia is noW tHe ma triarCH o F tHe laWren Ce Famil y!

our Family Will alWays Honor Her and appreCiate Her loVe!

Ulysses Bell, JDCongratulations

Virginia, WitH Her BrotHers and sisters

We Ca n alWa ys depen d upon Her For Her insigHt, Wis dom, gui dan Ce an d support. sHe ne Ver let us Forget tHat We are a Famil y tHat Was taugHt HoW to loVe one an otHer B y our parents! We are Here, ViCariously, to CeleBrate WitH Her!

A friend, a brother, a scholar, and a gentleman.

Celebrating your chancellor’s legacy award 2023

Leroy and Celeste Williams

Fort Washington, MD Class of '64 and '65 VIKING PRIDE!

Working Together to Spark Good

The world is full of big problems. So big that it’s easy for them to make us feel smaller than small. But there’s something magical that happens when you think about helping the world in a new light and realize that helping your world can be the start of helping the world.

Because while the world can be overwhelming, distant, and just plain hard to wrap your arms around, your world is grounding, tangible, and personal to you and the things you care about in a way that makes making an impact feel like it’s within your reach.

Spark Good sprang from a simple question:

How might we work together to better support the communities we love?”

And helping you help your world is the answer. It’s an answer that comes naturally to Walmart. Being part of your communities and neighborhoods has always been important to us. It means we know you, because we are you. Just... a little bit bigger.

So we’re here to be your force multiplier — turning your small actions into big ripples that amount to meaningful impact in your world, whatever it looks like.

Because we believe that when we come together, we can Spark Good.

Learn more at: Walmart.com/Sparkgood

~ CONGRATULATIONS ~

VIRGINIA L. HOUSTON

2023 CHANCELLOR’S LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT

ELIZABETH CITY STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION, INCORPORATED

Elizabeth City (NC) Chapter

Gwendolyn Sanders ……………………………………………………………………….President

Dr. Aresta Johnson ………………………………………………………………… Vice President

Trisha Walton ……………………………………………………………….Recording Secretary

Leah Banks …………………………………………………………….Corresponding Secretary

Latisha Coston ………………………………………………………………...Financial Secretary

Janice Baker ………………………………………………………………………………….Treasurer

Dr. Crystal Keyes ……………………………………………………….Audit Committee Chair

Lakesha Morris ………………………………………………..Nominating Committee Chair

Dr. Velma Blackmon …………………………………………………………… Parliamentarian

Shelva Banks …………………………………………………………………………………. Chaplain

Yvonne Walton ……………………………………………………...Immediate Past President

Dr. Carol Anderson

Carol Baker

Dr. Lucretia Banks

**Mollie Beasley

Dr. Gloria Frelix Brown

Chantel Cherry-Lassiter

Andrea Combs

**Wilhelma Cooper

Dr. Karrie Dixon

**Dr. Jeanette Evans

**Rwanda Farrer

Mary Foskey

**Addie Griffin

Evelyn Henley

Virginia Houston

Angela Jackson

Mary Jackson

Dr. Lenora Jarvis-Mackey

Dr. Cheryl Lewis

Dr. Nichole Lewis

**Bettie Lyons

**Wanda McLean

Cynthia Morris

**Mary Morris

** Joyce Nowell

**Katrena Reid

** Jean Sims

Dorothy Skinner

Anita Walton

Alice Gallop West

Nekia Williams

**Roberta Shaw Williamson

**Alumna Members

Care isn’t just what we do at Truist—it’s who we are. We make sure people around us feel supported and more in control. We find out what’s important to our clients, and make it important to us. We get involved in meaningful ways with our communities. Why? Because real connections and real care create better outcomes. Now that’s powerful.

To learn more, contact:

Annalisa Morgan

Vice President

Albemarle Area Market President

252-679-3006 | Annalisa.Morgan@Truist.com

Truist.com

Truist Bank, Member FDIC. © 2023 Truist Financial Corporation. Truist, the Truist logo and Truist Purple are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The ECSU Foundation, Incorporated, expresses heartfelt gratitude to our faithful contributors, service vendors, and program participants for your continued generosity and steadfast support Your assistance affirms your commitment to the Foundation’s mission to ensure student access to excellent higher education opportunities Thank you, ALL!

Acknowledgments:

Chancellor Karrie G Dixon and the Office of the Chancellor

ECSU Academic Affairs

ECSU Division of Student Affairs

ECSU Office of Communications and Marketing

ECSU University Advancement

Malcolm Hall ’25

DeJuan Hoggard

Tech Factory

Erica Endicott Design Studio

Dr Jeanette H Evans, ’63

Moments Captured Event Production

Brittney Lamb Events

5Starr Band

LA Entertainment

Aramark

City Beverage Company, Incorporated

Albermarle Distributing Company

Special thanks to the ECSU Foundation

Scholarship Gala Committee:

Dr Sadie Johnson Carter ’72, Co-Chair

Mrs Diana Gardner, Co-Chair

Mr Ariel Aponte

Mrs Janice W Baker

Mrs Alyssa Banks

Dr Lucretia Banks

Colonel Randy B Bell ’72

Dr DeShanna Brown

Dr Gary Brown

Ms Bernadine Cobb

Ms Alexis Cowell

Mrs Lydia Daniel

Mrs Letitia Evans

Ms Arlinda Halfacre

Mrs Ayana Hernandez

Mrs Teresa Lassiter

Ms Johnyelle Y Lee

Dr Lenora Jarvis-Mackey ’66

Miss Sha’nyah Moore ’23

Mrs Robin Parker

Dr Kimrey Rhinehardt

Ms Melba Smith

Mr Kevin Wade ’02

Mrs Angela Wills ’99

Mr Eric Zarghami

When you start with care, you get a different kind of bank.

The Elizabeth City State University Foundation ("the Foundation") is a nonprofit organization incorporated on February 2, 1971 under the laws of the state of North Carolina.

The Foundation's purpose is to provide financial assistance to students of Elizabeth City State University, to facilitate fundraising efforts on behalf of the university, and to serve as an advocate for the ECSU community-at-large. The Foundation is the single member of the Elizabeth City State University Housing Foundation, LLC (Housing Foundation) and is a limited liability company formed in North Carolina on December 20, 2002. Its purpose is to fur ther the charitable purposes of the Foundation and to construct housing facilities for use by ECSU students.

Your investment in our students today will have a great impact in our future.

To Live Is LeaTo r n

- The ECSU Motto

83% REAL IMPACT

52 THE NUMBER OF YEARS THE ECSU FOUNDATION THE PERCENTAGE OF PROCEEDS FROM THE ECSU FOUNDERS DAY

1.4M APPROXIMATE AMOUNT OF SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS THE HAS AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS. SCHOLARSHIP GALA THAT GOES ECSU FOUNDERS DAY SCHOLARSHIP TO SCHOLARSHIP FUNDING. GALA HAS RAISED SINCE 2009.