Congratulations to all new graduates, and welcome to all alumni. The rite of passage from student to alumnus/alumna is a major accomplishment. As you reflect on your successes and invaluable experiences, recognize that this transition comes with great, but rewarding, responsibilities. It is our responsibility to positively affect the world by improving our communities.
The Black Alumni Society is continuing to serve as a resource for NC State and the greater community through programming and scholarship efforts. During the first quarter: we hosted the 3rd Annual Black Alumni Conference; the Washington, D.C., chapter held a social event for local alumni; and Al Leaston ’05 joined the executive board as the Student Development Committee Chair. We have accomplished a lot, but there is much work ahead.
Our second-quarter accomplishments include awarding the Black Alumni Society Undergraduate Scholarship to Naimah Jabali-Nash, a senior from Oxon Hill, Md.; financially supporting the African American Cultural Center through our African American Cultural Center Endowment; and securing our new www.ncsublackalumni.org domain name. Other second-quarter goals include:
- Hosting an initial strategic planning session
- Beginning development of a fund-raising campaign
- Increasing programming
- Establishing relationships and partnerships with other alumni organizations, institutions, and NC State alumni clubs and affinity groups
- Enhancing the African American Cultural Center Endowment
- Beginning 4th Annual Black Alumni Conference planning
- Filling vacant executive board positions
- Treasurer
- Social Programs Committee Chair
- Chapter Presidents Committee Chair
- Cultural Development Committee Chair
- Alumni Development Committee Chair
- Communications Committee Chair
Our accomplishments and goals are not attainable without support from fellow alumni and friends. Get involved with the Black Alumni Society by serving on one of our various committees, assisting with other initiatives or donating to our scholarships and endowments. Most recently, alumni assisted with the planning of the Black Alumni Conference.
Visit www.ncsublackalumni.org for more information about the Black Alumni Society and www.alumni.ncsu.edu for more information about the Alumni Association. Mark your calendar for Homecoming 2007 (October 21 – 27). The Black Alumni Society is currently planning social events for Friday and Saturday night, as well as a tailgate on game day. We hope to see you there.
Go Pack!
Sincerely,
Keon Pettiway ‘05
President