Winston-Salem State received $10,000 from United Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church on Feb. 9 in honor of late chancellor Haywood L. Wilson Jr .
The church celebrated its annual event Winston-Salem State University Day to present the Haywood L. Wilson Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship.
The scholarship is named after Wilson, who graduated from WSSU in 1963 with w degree in education. Wilson held various positions at the University, including vice chancellor of student affairs, before serving as chancellor in 1984 . The scholarship was started by Wilson’s wife, Rosa, after his death in 1992.
“The passing of my father was sudden and he had an impact on the community and the University. We wanted to continue his legacy,” said LaJoi Wilson-Moore, assistant principal of Jefferson Middle School and Wilson’s daughter.
To be eligible for the scholarship, the student must declare a major in education.
The scholarship is need-based and may be renewed.
Wilson-Moore said that at least one or two students receive the scholarship each year.
“The church has passion for education and likes to see young people achieving their dreams and striving to be successful,” the Rev. Prince R. Rivers of UMMBC said.
According to Glenda Hayes, endowment accountant at WSSU, most of the funds for the scholarship come from a UMMBC endowment.
The interest earned after the donated money is deposited into an investment fund can be dispersed among scholars. Hayes said the scholarship must have at least $10,000 in its fund in order to invest.
Diamyn Goss, senior elementary education major from Williamston, N.C. said she hopes to one day receive the scholarship.
“Haywood Wilson was a smart and dedicated man so I know he would expect the same of others.”
Rivers said,”The church is very committed and glad to help and always looking for ways to work with the school and support the students.”