The vibrancy of North Carolina A&T State University’s campus was palpable as alumni, students, and faculty gathered for the annual Fall Convocation during the celebrated Homecoming week, known as the Greatest Homecoming on Earth. As the university commemorated its esteemed history, twelve exceptional alumni were awarded for their remarkable achievements encompassing academia, law, engineering, and more.
Inspiring Voices: The Keynote by Keli Christopher
The event’s keynote address was delivered by Keli Christopher ’94, an empowering figure in STEM. Founder and CEO of The STEM Greenhouse, Christopher captivated the audience with her passion for creating opportunities for children of color in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Her words resonated deeply, emphasizing perseverance and empowerment amidst systemic challenges. “Know this: there will be barriers,” said Christopher, “But you are bigger than those barriers. Anything is possible. Never give up and be blessed.”
A Tapestry of Success Across Disciplines
Among the honorees was Pamela Richardson Wilks, Ph.D., ’97 & ‘98, who has excelled in her role as provost at Coppin State University, and The Honorable Lora Cubbage ’02, a distinguished figure in North Carolina’s judiciary. The alumni recognized spanned various fields, from business to health sciences, each honoree leaving a significant impact within their professions and communities.
Breaking Barriers: Honoring Justice Henry E. Frye
A notable highlight was the distinguished alumni award to Justice Henry E. Frye, A&T Class of ’53, whose pioneering career broke racial barriers in North Carolina’s legal landscape. His journey was not only celebrated as a personal success but as an inspiring beacon for future generations. His tenure as North Carolina’s first African American Supreme Court Justice stands as a testament to his indomitable spirit.
A Diverse Celebration of Accomplishments
The awards ceremony was a profound reminder of the collective achievements of A&T’s alumni. Each recipient, from Adero Paige, advancing DoD space programs, to Troy Dawson leading Government Satellite Systems, reflected a narrative of dedication, skill, and leadership.
Reflective Moments at Homecoming
The camaraderie and spirit of homecoming fostered a reflective environment, one where alumni recalled the university’s role in shaping their futures. The celebration wasn’t merely an acknowledgment of past accomplishments, but a motivational call to all present to pursue excellence and impact the world positively.
As illustrated in North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, this convocation reinforced North Carolina A&T State University’s commitment to nurturing leaders, fostering innovation, and celebrating diversity. The honorees serve as exemplars, their journeys reflecting the dedication, resilience, and triumph synonymous with the Aggie spirit.
Join us next year for another inspiring convocation and an even greater celebration!
