WS Chronicle

By Alex Ingram,

Winston-Salem’s two public universities are set to benefit from new investments in scholarships, campus improvements and athletics under North Carolina State Senate’s proposed 2025 state budget.

The 2025 Appropriations Act, introduced in the General Assembly as Senate Bill 257, outlines funding priorities for the next two fiscal years. The proposal holds core funding steady for Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) and the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) while adding targeted investments that could boost enrollment, retention and infrastructure across both campuses.

WSSU joins elite scholarship program

A major highlight of the proposed budget is the expansion of the Cheatham-White Scholarship Program to include WSSU. The full-ride merit-based scholarship—previously offered only at N.C. A&T State University and N.C. Central University—will award up to 50 scholarships annually at WSSU, including 40 for in-state students and 10 for out-of-state students.

The program covers tuition, room and board, textbooks and additional expenses, and is expected to continue to position WSSU as a competitive destination for top academic talent.

State funds support WSSU campus renovations and athletics

WSSU is also slated to receive continued funding for the expansion of the K.R. Williams Auditorium, a renovation that will double the venue’s seating capacity and modernize its facilities. Additional capital funding will support upgrades to Eller Hall and Pegram Hall, including the addition of elevators to improve accessibility.

In a new statewide initiative to support athletics programs at public universities, WSSU is expected to receive $500,000 annually to strengthen its athletic department and facilities.

UNC School of the Arts maintains core funding, eyes student housing expansion

The UNC School of the Arts will continue to receive $41.97 million annually in state support, maintaining its operating budget. While the school’s core appropriation remains unchanged, the budget includes authorization for a new residence hall for its high school division. The project is expected to enhance student recruitment and provide improved housing for young artists from across the state.

Faculty raises and student support across UNC system

The proposed budget includes salary increases for UNC system faculty and staff, continuing multi-year efforts to improve retention and competitiveness across campuses. Additionally, the state will continue funding the UNC Completion Assistance Program, which provides financial support for students nearing graduation who face unexpected economic challenges. WSSU is among the campuses eligible for this support.

Strategic investment in Winston-Salem’s education ecosystem

With both WSSU and UNCSA serving as educational anchors and community hubs, local leaders say the proposed investments could deliver long-term value for students and the broader Winston-Salem community.

“Expanding the Cheatham-White Scholarship at WSSU has been a long-standing goal for quite some time. The proposed investment represents sustained advocacy and a shared commitment to the exceptional students who enrich our community. While the budget remains under consideration, I’m proud to have championed this effort and will continue working to ensure it becomes a reality.” Said NC State Senator Paul Lowe.

The budget bill is still under debate in the General Assembly, and final allocations may shift before passage.