N.C. A&T Celebrated Alumni Reunion Weekend with Historic Class Participation
More than 400 enthusiastic Aggies and guests came together May 8-10 for an unforgettable Alumni Reunion Weekend – North Carolina A&T’s largest two-class reunion ever, celebrating the Golden Class of 1975 and the Silver Class of 2000.
Golden and Silver Aggies from Arizona to Massachusetts traveled in to enjoy the festivities and reconnect with classmates. Celebrants gathered at the Alumni Foundation Event Center on May 9 for a kick-off event that includes games, line dancing, food, Aggie vendors and photo opportunities with CeeCee, the AI robot.
That evening, the Induction Banquet for the Society of Golden Aggies (SOGA) and the Society of Silver Aggies (SOSA) was held at the Koury Convention Center/Sheraton Greensboro at the Four Seasons Hotel. The elegant, tradition-infused banquet featured Gabrielle J.R. Hurtt-Smart, Miss North Carolina A&T – 1999-2000, as mistress of ceremonies.
Crystal W. Boyce ‘07 & ‘15, associate vice chancellor of Alumni Relations, inducted the Golden Class of 1975, while legendary Aggie alumna Dr. Velma Speight ‘53, inducted the Silver Class of 2000. Class coordinators Linda Wilson Cannady (Golden Aggies) and Stephanie Smith (Silver Aggies) shared special comments for the occasion and included a memorial tribute for members of both classes who have passed away.
The evening closed with a special announcement of the class giving totals by Vice Chancellor for University Advancement Monique Dozier, proving once again that Aggies give back with purpose. Below are the giving totals as of May 7:
- Golden Class of 1975: $578,204
- Golden Class of 1975 Endowment: $133,400
- Golden Class Endowment Goal: $150,000
- Silver Class of 2000 – $149,753
- Silver Class of 2000 Endowment – $3,077
- Silver Class of 2000 Endowment Goal: $100,000
Silver Class of 2000 Planning Committee
Golden Class of 1975 Planning Committee
Saturday brought early excitement as the newly inducted Golden Aggies were recognized during the morning, undergraduate commencement ceremony at the First Horizon Coliseum Complex by Chancellor James R. Martin II. Martin recognized the Silver Class at the 2 p.m. undergraduate ceremony, with a combined total of more than 35,000 graduating students, family members and friends at both events.
The energy was electric, with families, friends, and fellow Aggies, celebrating alongside graduation speaker and Detroit Lions General Manager Brad Holmes ’02. Following each ceremony, the classes gathered on campus at Truist Stadium to take official class photos in the stands at the 50-yard line, as is tradition.
As the sun began to set, the festivities wrapped up with the Golden & Silver Class Mixer, themed the Aggie Trail Ride, a joyful evening of music, laughter, and connection as both classes came together one final time to celebrate each other and their alma mater.
The Office of Alumni Relations extends its heartfelt thanks to the incredible Class Coordinators, planning committee members, alumni volunteers, students, the Division of University Advancement team, university-wide colleagues and Aggie vendors. “Your dedication, enthusiasm, and tireless efforts were instrumental in making Alumni Reunion Weekend a resounding success,” said Boyce. “This unforgettable celebration of the Aggie spirit would not have been possible without your unwavering commitment to our Aggie family.
“Thank you to everyone who helped make this celebration a truly unforgettable experience; it was one for the Aggie history books. We’re deeply grateful.”
John and Kathy Hairston, namesakes of The John R. & Kathy R. Hairston College of Health & Human Sciences, are passionate champions of scholarship support and student-centered initiatives. They enjoyed celebrating their golden class reunion together. For Mrs. Hairston, the highlight of the weekend was reconnecting with classmates, and for Mr. Hairston, the most moving moment came when he heard the new graduates chant, “Aggie Pride.”
Darnell and Carolyn Glover (center), proud members of the Golden Class. Mr. Glover currently serves as president of the Aggie Athletic Foundation (AAF).
The Aggie legacy was proudly on display throughout the weekend with the Sampson family, who represent three generations of devoted Aggies. Kerelle Sampson ’00, Deborah Sampson ’76 and John Sampson ’75 exemplify a deep, multigenerational commitment to North Carolina A&T. Their presence served as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of the Aggie experience that continues to inspire and unite families across generations.
Cleola Davis has added “author” to her long list of impressive accomplishments with the release of her compelling new book, “Forged in Battle: African American Officers Serving in the United States Army.” A proud member of the Golden Class of 1975, Cleola dedicated 22 years to military service. Commissioned into the Ordnance Corps, she specializes in equipment management, logistics, and supply chain operations. Rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, she distinguished herself through leadership and dedication, earning numerous accolades, including the prestigious Bronze Star.
This year, Dana Lee-Hines (left photo: second from right) joyfully marked her Silver Anniversary surrounded by friends and fellow Aggies. The occasion was both a celebration and a tribute, as Dana honored the legacy of her beloved grandmother, Dorothy Ray (right photo): left), a proud Golden Aggie from the Class of 1975.
Poignantly, Mrs. Ray passed away just days before the 2025 Alumni Class Reunion. The photo on the right captures a cherished memory from 25 years ago, when Dana graduated and they celebrated both her commencement and Mrs. Ray’s own Silver Anniversary together. Rest in Peace, Dorothy Ray. Your spirit and legacy continue to inspire.
