RALEIGH, NC (Dec 16, 2016) – Today, Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) announced that it has received one of its largest donations from an alum in recent history. Dr. Elvin R. Jones, a 1967 graduate of the institution, presented the university with a check for $50,000 in honor of the upcoming 50th anniversary of his graduation.
“I make sure I give every year, but this year I wanted to do something even more special,” shared Dr. Jones. “When I attended Saint Augustine’s, African Americans were not as accepted at predominately white institutions in the south as they are now—and our options for higher education were limited. The university needs to remain alive to offer this next generation what it instilled in me and scores of other graduates.”
While matriculated at the institution Jones majored in History and Government and also played football. Forty percent of the donation has been earmarked for the Department of Athletics; the remaining sixty percent will be under the institution’s discretion for meeting the financial needs of scholars.
According to Dr. Everett B. Ward, president of the institution, “On behalf of the Saint Augustine’s University family and all who benefit directly and indirectly from our mission to produce transformative global leaders, we are thankful to Dr. Jones for this most generous contribution. The lives of hundreds of our scholars will be materially and positively impacted by the kindness and charity we have witnessed today.”
In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Class of 1967, Jones (along with his classmates) will be recognized during the university’s 2017 commencement exercises on the University Quad on Saturday, May 13.
Other Saint Augustine’s University alumni interested in giving back are asked to contact Ms. Sheryl Ximines, director of the Office of Alumni Affairs, at 919-516-4343 or via email at SXimines@st-aug.edu.
Saint Augustine’s University was founded in 1867 by the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina for the purpose of educating freed slaves. The campus, which sits on 105 acres, is a private, four-year liberal arts university with an approximate enrollment of 950 students. In January 2017, the institution will begin its yearlong celebration of its 150th Anniversary.