It gives me great joy to share time with you once again as we move towards the close of another exciting school year. We have reached numerous milestones as we persevered beyond challenges, both foreseen and unseen. You are truly exceptional students and that is clear in many, many ways. So, for this edition of the Chancellor’s Corner, allow me to share my thoughts on the Student Awards Banquet and the symbolism represented with the event.The purpose of the Student Awards Banquet is to showcase and commend the various forms of human endeavors that are a part of student life at WSSU. Particular note should be given to the vast number of students who received awards. There were over 60 students who received the award for “Who’s Who Among Students,” which is a national award that serves as a true centerpiece for measuring excellence among students from various institutions. Our university is also proud to recognize over 100 students who received the Student Activities Office “Outstanding Leadership Award” which is based on leadership in extra-curricula activities. Another leadership forum, the WSSU Leadership Institute, selected over 70 students who have demonstrated various forms of leadership in both academia and throughout the campus community. In addition to the previously stated awards, you, the students, serve the greater community of Winston-Salem as evidenced by the “Community Service Award” to approximately 28 students. It is clear that you are truly making a difference in the classroom and throughout the many facets of WSSU life. The Student Awards Banquet is certainly representative of the realization that the various facets of life at our great institution require a wide-range of organizations. I am particularly impressed with the active steps that you take in starting new organizations. It takes courage, determination, and keen insight to assess needs, develop a plan of action, and start an organization to address those needs. You approach this challenge with excitement and WSSU is taking notice. Two groups that quickly come to mind are L.O.V.E, Leaders of Virtue and Excellence, and Black Men for Change. You are truly making a difference in the lives of those at WSSU and the members of the Winston-Salem Community. I commend you for your commitment to excellence.I also commend the entire student body for understanding that excellence is expressed by way of individualism and through collaborative efforts. There were a number of awards that recognized individuals who were not afraid to delve into the high demands of volunteerism and activism. This at times may be a road less traveled by many given that support is often more prevalent in numbers. It is also notable that for many of you who have chosen to serve your community through groups, you have not lost your individualism. Many of you have truly embraced the underlying premise that the experience of “departing to serve” comes by way of many venues and yields many results. What is of importance is that you are committed to making a difference and that the difference you make is more than an effort to advance a personal agenda. It gives me great pleasure to say that you truly epitomize the spirit of selfless giving. Thank you for serving as examples of true leaders.
Send all questions and comments to chancellorsoffice@wssu.edu.