WS Chronicle

On Thursday, May 16, members of the Winston-Salem Chapter of North Carolina Central University Alumni Association gathered off Stratford Road. The purpose was not to conduct business, nor to render service.  Rather, the purpose was to celebrate “Golden” Eagles in the chapter and area.

 A “Golden” Eagle is a person who graduated 50 or more years ago. There were 18 Goldens present and many more live in the area. The oldest Golden present graduated in 1953. Attendees enjoyed a tasty dinner of a garden salad, chicken breasts with mushrooms and onions, creamed potatoes, green beans and cake. Afterward, alumni shared stories about campus life, including stories about curfews and the rule of signing out of the dorms to attend events; how romances budded and flourished, ending in long-term marriages. Five couples were present, of which two were widowed. Other interesting stories were also shared about young people spreading their wings, being away from home for the first time and included escapades that most college students experienced.

Samuel Cooper, the National Alumni Association president, traveled from Charlotte to help celebrate. Cooper announced that one of our own, Mrs. Mable Hicks Stevenson, has been selected as recipient of the highest honor bestowed upon an alumnus and will be recognized as the Founders’ Lifetime Achievement awardee at the summer Council Meeting in July. The Eagles salute her!

Diane Butler chaired the Golden Eagle committee with assistants Phyllis H. Martin, Audrey W. Gaddy and Larry Butler. Gifts were given to the Goldens and Cooper gave all those in attendance the new Eagle lapel pin. Local chapter president, , gave the opening welcome and closing remarks.

The Eagles departed in a celebratory spirit after singing the Alma Mater. What a wonderful celebration!