Johnson C. Smith University recognized a group of dedicated donors during the 1867 Giving Society Brunch held on April 26 in the New Science Center Innovation Lab, according to a May 1 announcement. The event, which took place as part of Founders Week, brought together alumni, faculty, staff, and community leaders to celebrate philanthropy and support for the university.
The brunch highlighted the importance of donor contributions in supporting student success and institutional growth. Named after JCSU’s founding year, the society acknowledges those whose ongoing generosity helps maintain the university’s legacy. Dr. Henderson noted that Johnson C. Smith University was established 159 years ago and referenced Mrs. Mary Baird Biddle’s significant early gift as an inspiration for current giving.
President Valerie Kinloch joined organizers Calvin Banks, Wanda Foy-Burroughs, Dr. Ashley Keys, Katrina Gordon, and Dr. Boris Henderson to recognize a total of 66 donors at the event. “Because of you, our students dream bigger and achieve more, and walk confidently into their futures,” said Kinloch during her remarks.
Several alumni shared their reasons for giving back to JCSU during the brunch. Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins said: “I give because Smith made me who I am.” Geraldine Dawson added: “Smith gave me four years of scholarships… Now it’s my turn to give someone else that chance.” James Vanderhall reflected on his own journey by saying: “This university gave me my education—and my wife.” His wife Valerie Douglas Vanderhall remarked: “JCSU gave us opportunity—and we’ve been giving back ever since.”
The event also honored individuals across various tiers within the Giving Societies structure—Sanders Society ($10,000–$24,999), Myers Society ($25,000–$49,999), Duke Society ($50,000–$99,999), and Golden Bull Society ($100,000–$499,999). Honorees included Lex Bibbs (’05), Jerry Clark (’76), Tenriche Y. Gaines (’96), Dr. Boris J. Henderson (Interim Vice President), Mary Foxx Johnson (’77), Carol Ann-Marie Lawrence (Head Track Coach), Peggy M. Lide (’79) & Alphonso Lide (’77), Eunice Emanuel Murray (’98) & Kemuel Murray (’00), Diane Wilson Proctor (’76), Wanda Gail Rogers Phillips (’77), Kutricia Hubbard Spann (’72) among others.
In closing remarks at the brunch Dr. Henderson said: “The continued philanthropy of our alumni and friends plays a major role in ensuring that we can keep a quality education within reach of our motivated talented and industrious young men and women.”
