Years of Textiles AT NC STATE
2024: A YEAR OF MILESTONES
As we celebrate 125 years of textiles education, innovation and leadership at North Carolina State University, we are inspired by the transformative role that alumni, friends and industry partners continue to play in shaping the future of the Wilson College of Textiles and the North Carolina Textile Foundation (NCTF).
With unwavering support from the NCTF Board of Directors, the Wilson College of Textiles has not only maintained but advanced its reputation as the globally preeminent textiles institution. Today, we do not simply educate students for four years. Instead, we support them throughout their entire lives. This is what it means when we say “Wilson for Life.”
As Chancellor Randy Woodson often states: “With state support, we can be a good university, but with private support, we can be an extraordinary university.” The more than 1,200 donors to the Wilson College of Textiles in fiscal year 2024 are vital to our mission as a talent provider and an innovation engine that drives the United States’ textiles industry to thrive and compete. A vibrant, adaptable and resilient textiles manufacturing industry is vital for our nation’s economy, rural communities and ultimately our homeland security.
This year has been extraordinary for our college and the NCTF in so many ways. We invite you to dive into this annual report to explore the impact that philanthropy has had on our recent successes.
We are deeply grateful for your belief in our mission and your commitment to the Wilson College of Textiles. As a valued member of our community, you play an essential role in the “Wilson for Life” experience. We look forward to continuing it together.
Best regards,
David Hinks, Ph.D.
Dean
Cone Mills Distinguished Professor of Textile Chemistry
Wilson College of Textiles
North Carolina State University
Michael Ward
Executive Director
North Carolina Textile Foundation
Wilson College of Textiles
North Carolina State University
NCTF Fundraising Report — Fiscal Year 2024
Showcasing the foundation’s growing endowment, donor support and transformative impact on the Wilson College of Textiles.
Celebrating 125 Years of Textiles at NC State
Since we opened our doors in 1899, we’ve developed breakthroughs, prepared leaders and pushed the industry forward.
Reliving the 125th Anniversary Celebration
On September 26, 2024, a milestone celebration spotlighted our college’s rich legacy, remarkable present and visionary future.
Investing in Next-Generation Textile Leaders
Our college supports students throughout their journey — for life — by providing essential resources including mental health services.
Flex Factory to Honor W. Duke Kimbrell
Textile innovation and entrepreneurship at the Wilson College will reach new heights with the W. Duke Kimbrell Flex Factory.
Wilson College of Textiles Highlights
From record-breaking enrollment to boosted doctoral stipends, the college is forging an impressive path as the global textiles leader.
Milliken and TPACC Unit to Drive Safety
One of the globe’s leading manufacturers, Milliken & Company, will further advance the college’s Textile Protection and Comfort Center.
Scholarship Milestones Celebrate Impact
The inaugural Textile Pioneer Scholars crossed the graduation stage, and the Centennial Scholarship Program celebrates 25 years.
Alumni and Donor Awards of Excellence
Top honors from NC State’s alumni association and foundation have recognized remarkable members of the Wilson College of Textiles.
Day of Giving 2024 Shatters Previous Records
Record-breaking donations on Day of Giving and beyond will benefit exceptional students, staff, faculty, programs and research.
$9.8 MILLION
RAISED FOR THE WILSON COLLEGE OF TEXTILES
Because of you, the Wilson College of Textiles is shaping the future of textiles and empowering students from all walks of life to pursue their dreams. In turn, the college is revolutionizing textiles, apparel and related industries to improve the quality of life for all.
$84.7M
1,252
DONORS SUPPORTED TEXTILES
Generous donors — like you — supported the NCTF, which in turn fuels scholarships, research and innovation. Thank you!
18% % OF ALL UNDERGRADUATES WHO RECEIVED TEXTILES SCHOLARSHIPS
TEXTILES ENDOWMENT PROGRESS
This growing endowment ensures lasting support for students, faculty, staff, innovation and advancing the industry.
40 Named and General Centennial Scholars TEXTILES SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS ON CAMPUS
Named and General Textile Pioneer Scholars Kimbrell, Transfer and Other Scholars 11 90
THE GLOBAL PIONEER IN TEXTILES FOR 125 YEARS
WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION, INNOVATION AND LEADERSHIP.
For 125 years, NC State University has stood at the forefront of textiles education, innovation and leadership. From its modest beginnings in 1899, when the first textiles courses were offered to eight students, the college has grown into the world’s leading institution dedicated to textiles. Its legacy is one of groundbreaking achievements that have shaped not only the textile industry but also the broader landscape of science, technology and education.
Milestone moments in the college’s history highlight its unwavering commitment to progress. The first graduate emerged in 1901, and by 1925, the program was established as the School of Textiles. The school’s mission was advanced by the graduation of its first female student in 1932 and its first Black student in 1971. That same year, the school awarded the nation’s first doctorate in fiber and polymer science.
Innovative research has long been a hallmark of the Wilson College of Textiles. In the 1950s, faculty developed the first synthetic aorta, revolutionizing heart health. This advancement has saved and prolonged millions of lives. Later decades brought advances in safety and protection through the Textile Protection and Comfort Center — which proudly celebrates its 30th anniversary this year — and the establishment of The Nonwovens Institute, which has driven economic growth and created thousands of jobs.
This commitment to innovation is matched only by a tradition of transformative philanthropy.
Established in 1942 with an initial $500,000 donation, the North Carolina Textile Foundation has grown into an $85 million endowment, enabling the college to have a far greater impact on the textiles industry and society than it otherwise would. In 2018, a transformational $28 million gift from Fred Wilson Jr., a 1961 textiles alumnus, and his threegeneration textiles alumni family solidified this legacy, making the college the second named college at NC State.
The Wilson College of Textiles boasts a truly exceptional student body, empowered by our donors and partners. This year, we celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Centennial Scholarship Program , which has awarded life-changing scholarships to more than 225 students who have become impactful entrepreneurs, designers, engineers, scientists and compassionate service leaders.
2024 also marks the graduation of the inaugural class of Textile Pioneer Scholars. Established in 2018, the Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program supports exceptional students with financial need from rural areas of North Carolina, many of whom are first-generation college attendees.
As NC State celebrates 125 years of remarkable textiles history, we look ahead with excitement to shaping the future of textiles — together.
2018
Fred Wilson Jr. ’61 and his three-generation textiles alumni family named the Wilson College of Textiles.
2024
The first four Textile Pioneer Scholars graduate from NC State.
2022
Professor Roger Barker and researchers work with PyroMan in the Textile Protection and Comfort Center.
From the archives: Library study sessions in the ’70s, the move to Centennial Campus and the introduction of our inaugural Centennial Scholars in 2000.
125TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WILSON COLLEGE OF TEXTILES | RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
DONORS, INDUSTRY PARTNERS AND KEY ALUMNI ATTENDED THE
This fall, NC State marked 125 years of textiles education, innovation and leadership with an unforgettable celebration on NC State’s campus. More than 150 donors, industry partners, university leaders and key alumni gathered to honor this momentous milestone. Guests enjoyed the Becoming the Wilson College of Textiles: 125 Years of Transforming Lives and Innovating the Future immersive experience, a captivating video and hands-on exhibit that vividly showcased the college’s remarkable journey — past, present and future.
The evening was filled with inspiring moments, including remarks from Chancellor Randy Woodson and Dean David Hinks, who celebrated the college’s legacy of leadership in textiles. Michael Ward, executive director of the NCTF, and Nancy Webster, a distinguished alumna and president of the NCTF Board, reflected on its far-reaching impact. The crowd was captivated by the story of Ph.D. candidate and Chancellor’s Aide Nilu Rajendran, who traveled from India to study at the Wilson College, and by alumna Ritika Shamdasani’s remarkable entrepreneurship journey to co-found Sani, a brand championing South Asian styles.
This milestone anniversary event truly celebrated 125 years of bold ideas and groundbreaking achievements.
GRAB YOUR VR HEADSET AND WITNESS THE COLLEGE’S VIBRANT HISTORY IN A 360° VIDEO
360°
INVESTING IN NEXT-GEN LEADERS
“
“I’d like to give a big thank you to all of the professors, staff and peers for helping and supporting me along the way. I look forward to being a part of the NC State and Wilson College of Textiles alumni family. Here’s to the next adventure! ”
MAYA MITCHALL ’24
Merchandise Marketing Assistant at Bloomingdale’s // Class of 2024 Centennial Scholar
A GIFT FOR COMPASSIONATE WELLBEING SUPPORT
Thanks to your support of the Dean’s Textiles Innovation Fund and the Wilson College Wellbeing and Belonging Fund , our college is helping ensure everyone in its community — students and employees — has free access to professional resources to navigate life’s many challenges during their time at the college.
Your generosity is making a lasting difference across all areas of the Wilson College of Textiles. By supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our students, you are helping them overcome challenges, build resilience and focus on achieving their goals.
“The beauty of this position is I get to interact with students in the Wilson College, which in itself is a very specific and advanced population that is dealing with their own set of life transitions,” said Michael Tuma, the college’s mental health counselor. “My being here, focused on these particular populations, is something that I’m excited to be a part of because I get to help them navigate their unique journeys and provide them with other resources along the way.”
91+
Textiles students received clinical mental health services of mental health outreach were provided through
147+ HOURS
75+ EVENTS
WILSON FOR LIFE: SUCCESS BEYOND GRADUATION
At the Wilson College of Textiles, we pride ourselves on being more than just a college — we’re a close-knit community bound by shared passions and enduring connections. Since our founding, the extraordinary dedication of our alumni has propelled our success. They are an integral part of our college community, which supports our students inside and outside of the classroom, studio and laboratory. Our alumni have delivered by donating their time and treasure and by providing opportunities for our students, including internships and mentoring support.
This demonstrates what it means to be part of Wilson for Life every day: before and after a graduation milestone.
95% 95%
Success rate for May 2024 undergraduate students
Textiles alumni around the world 11K+
Success rate for May 2024 master’s degree graduates
Graduating from the Wilson College of Textiles means stepping into a network of over 12,000 alumni, donors and friends who’ve got your back, whether you’re breaking into the textile industry or applying your skills in related fields. With 95% of our May 2024 undergraduates and master’s degree recipients working in a related field or continuing their education within six months of graduation, our community is proof that a Wilson College degree isn’t just a milestone — it’s a launchpad.
Our college attracts graduate students from across the United States and around the globe. Almost all of those graduating with master’s degrees and Ph.D.s become part of a leadership talent pipeline for the U.S. textiles and apparel industries. No other college in the United States provides this level of graduate education in textiles disciplines.
““Throughout my four and a half years at the college, I have many cherished memories and have built a tight-knit community that is priceless. During my undergraduate career, I presented my research often to audiences of textile leaders, traveled to Milan, Italy, to attend ITMA, and was connected to life-changing internships. I am truly thankful for those who have inspired me and offered support along the way. ”
SAMUEL PAN ’24, ’25 M.S.
Textile Engineering Graduate Student
LEGACY OF INNOVATION AT THE FLEX FACTORY
The W. Duke Kimbrell Flex Factory , set to formally open in 2026, will serve as the preeminent engine for textile entrepreneurship to advance the U.S. textile supply chain. Named after W. Duke Kimbrell ’49, a visionary leader and philanthropist, this state-of-theart facility honors his transformative impact on the textile industry, his enduring legacy of generosity and his belief in American enterprise and entrepreneurship.
Kimbrell’s remarkable journey, from sweeping floors at Parkdale Mills to becoming one of the most influential textile executives of the 20th century, reflects a lifelong dedication to excellence and innovation. Under his leadership, Parkdale Mills grew into a textile giant with 26 plants, more than 5,000 employees and $1 billion in annual sales. His legacy continues to inspire, making the W. Duke Kimbrell Flex Factory a fitting tribute.
The facility will be built on NC State’s Centennial Campus and will offer 17,386 square feet of cutting-edge resources for everyone across NC State, not just the Wilson College of Textiles community. High-tech classrooms, collaborative spaces and advanced prototyping equipment — including body scanners, 3D printers and effluent-free yarn dyeing systems — will enable rapid product development and hands-on learning. Students, faculty, staff and industry professionals will collaborate to tackle real-world challenges, further cementing NC State as a leader in innovation.
17,000+
SQUARE-FOOT MAKERSPACE
Philanthropy has played a crucial role in bringing this extraordinary vision to life — thanks to support from the Kimbrell family, the W. Duke Kimbrell Family Foundation and many other donors. Additionally, scholarships established in Kimbrell’s name have empowered more than 70 students to pursue a textile education. These initiatives underscore Kimbrell’s belief in education and innovation as cornerstones of progress.
The W. Duke Kimbrell Flex Factory embodies his forward-thinking spirit, providing a platform for textile entrepreneurship, new prototypes, process development and validation — and ultimately, the translation of applied research into commercial success, which is critical to a vibrant U.S. economy. As the Wilson College of Textiles celebrates 125 years, this makerspace will drive the next generation of innovation, ensuring Kimbrell’s vision thrives for decades to come.
Students, staff and faculty will collaborate directly with leaders in the textile industry and innovative startup companies.
“My grandfather believed deeply in the power of innovation to drive the textile industry forward. We’re grateful to Dean Hinks and the Wilson College of Textiles for honoring him in this way. This facility will be a place where new ideas are born, perfectly reflecting his core values: ingenuity, collaboration and education. We are proud to support this college and industry, alongside many others who continuously champion its mission to shape the future of textiles.”
DAVIS WARLICK Executive Vice President of Parkdale Mills, Incorporated
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
Students from Gaston County have benefited tremendously from the W. Duke Kimbrell Centennial Scholarship and the Kimbrell Scholarship.
OFFICIAL OPENING YEAR 2026
Once its doors officially open in 2026, the W. Duke Kimbrell Flex Factory will become the world’s leading makerspace for textile and fiber-based innovation.
Photo renderings of the W. Duke Kimbrell Flex Factory — a university-wide facility designed to be an engine for entrepreneurship, supporting adaptability, innovation and resilience in the U.S. textiles industry.
W. Duke Kimbrell ‘49 credits NC State for laying the foundation for his prolific career.
WILSON COLLEGE FY24 HIGHLIGHTS
INCOMING FIRST-YEAR ENROLLMENT SINCE 2010 HIGHEST
EVER UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT RETENTION RATE (>96%)
STUDENT ENROLLMENT INCREASES
The Wilson College of Textiles worked closely with NC State’s Enrollment Management and Services and University Communications teams to support the demand for chemistry, engineering and technology degrees within the Wilson College of Textiles. This collaborative approach led to strong results this year.
115% INCREASE in students enrolled in the Polymer and Color Chemistry (PCC) program.
60% INCREASE in students enrolling in the Textiles Undeclared major , housed in the college.
30% INCREASE in total first-year enrollment for fall 2024 versus the three-year average.
20% INCREASE in students enrolling in the Fashion and Textile Design major within the college.
INCREASE FROM $16.K TO $21.6K
GROWING OUR GRADUATE STIPENDS TO RECRUIT TOP TALENT
For the last five years, the Wilson College has raised the minimum Ph.D. stipend annually to recruit top talent. Our goal is to increase the minimum stipend to over $25,000 per year, with many above $30,000. Milliken & Company ’s recent investment in the Textile Protection and Comfort Center will establish Milliken Fellowships , allowing us to surpass our goals and attract the best talent from around the globe.
DEAN’S TEXTILES INNOVATION FUND KEY INVESTMENTS
The Dean’s Textiles Innovation Fund provides discretionary support for Dean David Hinks, Ph.D., to quickly invest in areas of critical need as opportunities and challenges arise.
From helping students facing emergency hardship to supporting cultural experiences and professional development for staff and faculty, the Dean’s Textiles Innovation Fund has helped meet the college’s most immediate needs. Priority areas include student, faculty and staff development; educational seminars; travel to top industry conferences; the retention of talented faculty and staff; and the launch of innovative programs and facilities.
In fiscal year 2024, the fund directly supported initiatives such as free tutoring for all students; expanded advising services and the college’s embedded mental health counselor; hosting national and international conferences; and critical renovations to ensure the Wilson College’s facilities remain unmatched.
Supported the college’s first embedded mental health counselor for the benefit of all Wilson College students and our entire community.
Funds were invested to foster collaboration and modernize equipment to support our educational, research and innovation goals.
MILLIKEN INVESTS IN RESEARCH AT TPACC
When lives are on the line, textiles do more than cover. They protect, perform and push boundaries. With a new $1.5 million investment from Milliken & Company, groundbreaking research at NC State’s Textile Protection and Comfort Center (TPACC) will be further elevated through a five-year, fixed-term naming.
Housed within the Wilson College of Textiles, the newly named Milliken & Company Charitable Foundation Textile Protection and Comfort Center is poised to reach new heights.
The center, or TPACC for short, continues to build on its global reputation for advancing innovation and enhancing comfort in high-performance protective apparel. This important work safeguards first responders, military personnel and other frontline workers who depend on protective fabrics to keep them safe, secure and able to perform in the line of duty. It remains the only academic center in the United States that researches, tests and evaluates the comfort and protective performance of textile materials, garments and ensemble systems in one location.
“Milliken and TPACC are aligned in a bold vision to develop breakthrough materials and technologies that shape the future of protective apparel textiles,” says Halsey Cook, president and CEO at Milliken & Company and chair of the Milliken & Company Charitable Foundation. “This collaboration reflects our deep commitment to purposeful textile innovation that impacts lives, transforms industries and ensures that NC State remains a global leader in the field.”
Since its establishment in 1994, TPACC has become the world’s most advanced facility for researching and testing protective materials, clothing, accessories and systems.
FANNING THE FLAMES OF TEXTILE SCIENCE
Four primary research areas — heat and flame protection, chemical protection, comfort performance, and particle protection — underscore the center’s critical impact.
Among the center’s most notable resources is PyroMan™ , a life-sized manikin used to evaluate thermally protective clothing. Housed within a specialized 11 by 18-square foot fire chamber, PyroMan™ undergoes safe, controlled and repeated exposure to temperatures as high as 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
In turn, PyroMan™ shows researchers the potential tissue burn injuries that would harm a wearer, the scale of the burn area and the severity of those burns.
NEW PARTNERSHIP CHAMPIONS
GRADUATE STUDENT INNOVATION
Critical but often underfunded, graduate support is imperative to recruit the best and brightest minds to the Wilson College of Textiles.
In addition to fueling groundbreaking research, Milliken’s corporate donation includes funding for new Milliken Fellowships , which will increase the stipends offered to graduate students. This investment will benefit the college’s future textile innovators, scientists and entrepreneurs.
“This partnership represents more than a financial investment; it’s a shared belief in the power of textiles to improve lives,”
Dean David Hinks says.
“Together, the Wilson College of Textiles and Milliken are shaping a future where innovation and curiosity come together to protect and empower people around the world.”
$75M+
IN RESEARCH AWARDS
The iconic Milliken Textile Protection and Comfort Center has generated nearly $80 million in research and technical service awards.
30
OF PIONEERING RESEARCH
TPACC is the only comprehensive academic center in the U.S. that incorporates the capabilities to research, test and evaluate the comfort and protective performance of textile materials, garments and ensemble systems all in one location.
9,500 YEARS
SQUARE-FOOT SPACE
The college’s Milliken Textile Protection and Comfort Center (TPACC) includes state-of-theart laboratories, offices and collaboration spaces.
MILESTONE MOMENTS FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
In 2024, the Wilson College of Textiles proudly celebrated two transformative milestones: the 25th anniversary of the Centennial Scholarship Program and the graduation of the inaugural class of Textile Pioneer Scholars. These achievements highlight the college’s commitment to enabling students from all walks of life to transform their own lives by opening doors to extraordinary opportunities.
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF THE CENTENNIAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Established in 1999 to commemorate the college’s 100th anniversary, the Centennial Scholarship Program has grown to become one of the most prestigious merit-based scholarship programs at NC State and in textiles education globally. Thanks to the vision of Dean Emeritus Bob Barnhardt, who sadly passed away in December 2024, and the NCTF Board in the ‘90s, including leadership by Derick Close ’82, David Holt ’80 and Nancy Webster ’75, the program welcomed its first cohort of ten scholars in 2000. Over the past 25 years, more than 225 Centennial Scholars have benefited from its generous support, which includes up to $22,000 per year in scholarship funding and $7,500 in enrichment funds for transformative experiences like studying abroad and professional development.
Centennial Scholars have studied abroad in countries including Italy, Australia, the UK and Hong Kong, and alumni are now making significant contributions across various fields. Going forward, the primary goal of the college and NCTF is to fully endow all 40 Centennial Scholarships and to continue ensuring the program remains competitive by leading scholarship programs across the nation.
GRADUATION OF THE INAUGURAL TEXTILE PIONEER SCHOLARS
The Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program , established in 2018, celebrated a historic milestone this May. Jeana Grace Bowker, Alex Hutchens, Emma Myer-Medina and Leah Reid became the first Textile Pioneer Scholars to cross NC State’s commencement stage.
These scholars, hailing from non-metropolitan areas of North Carolina, embody the program’s mission to provide need-based scholarships and support students from North Carolina’s rural communities, which have been the bedrock of the U.S. textile industry for more than two centuries. Textile Pioneer Scholars receive a minimum of $14,000 annually and up to $4,000 in enrichment funds to explore leadership opportunities and global experiences.
Designed to align with NC State’s land-grant vision, the mission of the college and the needs of the U.S. textile industry, the scholarship program is preparing future leaders with rural backgrounds, thanks to the remarkable support of many passionate donors who share this vision.
Together, these two scholarship programs support the college’s bold vision for a compassionate world in which textiles enhance the sustainability and quality of life for all. By empowering scholars with the resources and opportunities to thrive, our donors are helping ensure the college remains a leader in textiles education and innovation.
As we celebrate these milestones, we sincerely thank the philanthropic leaders and donors who have made this possible and look forward to a future shaped by the next generation of leaders.
CRITICAL FINANCIAL SUPPORT LIFELONG CAREER SUPPORT
LIFE-CHANGING SCHOLARSHIPS
MENTORSHIP AND GUIDANCE ENRICHING LIFE EXPERIENCES
“The generous support of our donors has been instrumental in shaping the future of our exceptional students. Your contributions have not only laid the foundation for countless opportunities but have also empowered students to reach their fullest potential. The impact of your gifts extends far beyond the classroom, touching lives in communities across the globe.”
MICHAEL WARD Executive Director of the North Carolina Textile Foundation
HONORING FIVE TOP LEADERS OF THE PACK
Steve ’62 and Frosene Zeis 2024 Menscer Cup Award
Steve and Frosene Zeis’ enduring generosity has left an indelible mark on NC State, particularly the Wilson College of Textiles. Their decades of philanthropic leadership, dedicated service and commitment to expanding educational opportunities were recently recognized with the prestigious 2024 Menscer Cup Award. As the highest honor bestowed by the NC State University Foundation, this award acknowledges individuals whose extraordinary contributions have shaped NC State’s legacy and future.
“The Zeises have played important roles in the advancement of NC State. We are truly grateful for their commitment to NC State through their philanthropic leadership and volunteer service.” — CHANCELLOR RANDY WOODSON
Steve’s journey with NC State began in 1957, when he emigrated from Istanbul, Turkey, to study textiles — a passion sparked by his father’s fabric store. After graduating in 1962, he and Frosene co-founded ZTM Sales and Service Inc. The couple achieved success in the textile industry, which allowed them to give back to the institution that shaped their path.
The Zeises’ contributions have been transformative. They established two Centennial Scholarships and served as founding benefactors of the Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program, expanding access for first-generation and rural students. In 2006, they donated $1.5 million to create the Zeis Textiles Extension for Economic Development . Their generosity continued with the Steve and Frosene Zeis Distinguished Professorship in Technical Textiles . Through their unwavering dedication, the Zeises have ensured that the Wilson College of Textiles will continue to lead in education, research and innovation.
The couple shared their heartfelt gratitude and reflections with the NC State community through a video message.
Sherry McCraw ’90 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award
Known for her composed presence and calm confidence, Sherry McCraw ’90 leads with the precision of an engineer and the poise of a luxury car executive.
In recognition of her illustrious 31-year career in engineering and planning at BMW Manufacturing and her dedication to the Wilson College of Textiles, McCraw was honored with the NC State Alumni Association’s 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award.
McCraw’s career achievements and deep-rooted loyalty to NC State exemplify the ideals of the Distinguished Alumni Award.
Her commitment to the Wilson College of Textiles extends beyond her professional success. She serves on the North Carolina Textile Foundation (NCTF) Board of Directors , ensuring future generations have access to the same opportunities that shaped her own career. This legacy continues through her daughter, Maris — a sophomore studying textile technology at the Wilson College of Textiles. After encouraging Maris to attend the Summer Textile Exploration Program, McCraw was thrilled to see her daughter embrace campus life and follow in her footsteps.
McCraw and her husband, Kevin, also contribute philanthropically to NC State, supporting key initiatives such as the Dean’s Textiles Innovation Fund and the NCTF Centennial Scholarship Endowment . Her dedication continues to shape the future of textiles, ensuring the industry thrives for generations to come.
Lonny Carter ’08, ’19, ’22 and Bryan Ormond ’07, ’12
2024 Distinguished Young Alumni Awards
Textiles alumni continue to lead by example, excelling both on campus and in their respective fields.
Since graduating from the Wilson College of Textiles, Lonny Carter ’08, ’19, ’22 and Bryan Ormond ’07, ’12 have set themselves apart through their professional achievements, innovative research and dedication to the college’s values.
In 2024, the two graduates — who are now faculty members at their alma mater — were named the recipients of the 2024 Distinguished Young Alumni Awards.
Carter, a teaching assistant professor, is known for her patented LifeLine® Crossback Smock, a design that enhances safety for incarcerated individuals. Ormond, a leading researcher at TPACC, has secured over $12 million in funding to improve protective textiles for first responders. Their dedication continues to shape the future of the textile industry.
Established by the Dean’s Young Alumni Leadership Council in 2021, this award celebrates graduates under 40 who have significantly influenced their industry and communities.
DAY OF GIVING 2024
“Donor support is vital to advancing our college and enabling us to continue to be recognized globally as the preeminent textiles institution for the next 125 years.” — DEAN
$3,714,038
RAISED ON DAY OF GIVING 2024
716
GIFTS MADE TO 35 FUNDS
In 2023, we received 562 gifts. In 2024, we surpassed that total by more than 26%.
On March 20, 2024, the Wilson College of Textiles broke its records on Day of Giving to benefit exceptional students, programs and research.
670
DONORS MADE A GIFT
In 2024, 163 first-time donors joined our 670-donor community to support the college — up from 145 last year.
DAVID HINKS
KEY HIGHLIGHTS ON DAY OF GIVING
Several major gifts on Day of Giving played a pivotal role in strengthening initiatives that will help attract top-tier students and sustain the college’s reputation for excellence.
Thanks to a generous gift from Ernie Chornyei ’65, the Chornyei Endowment for Infrastructure, Equipment and Technology was established — the first named fund dedicated to maintaining world-class facilities. Additionally, a substantial investment from the Milliken & Company Charitable Foundation will enhance the Textile Protection and Comfort Center through two new funds that bolster research and education.
Four new scholarships were created to provide transformational opportunities for students, ease financial burdens and honor the legacies of their donors :
• Calabrese Endowed Scholarship Fund
• Debra Hess Centennial Scholarship Fund
• Johnson Family Scholarship Fund
• Arthur Rogers Sr. Endowed Scholarship Fund
Donors also rallied to unlock major matching gifts. Over 250 donations to the NCTF Centennial Scholarship Endowment unlocked a $100,000 gift from Nancy Webster ’75, supporting two key student funds. Additionally, an anonymous donor contributed $250,000 to the Flex Factory Capital Fund — enhancing its status as the world’s premier makerspace for fiber and textile innovation.
textiles.ncsu.edu