University Advancement

Dontá L. Wilson ’97 deals in HOPE — an acronym that stands for “helping other people excel” — his identified personal purpose in life. On Tuesday, April 9, UNC Charlotte honored the business and University leader for his commitment to spreading that hope to future generations of students with the naming of the Dontá L. Wilson Residence Hall.

Join Demond Martin ‘97, co-founder and CEO of WellWithAll, and Jay Williams, chairman/co-founder of Improbable Media and ESPN host, for an inspirational fireside chat on mental wellness, resilience and overall well-being. They will share their experiences and skills they developed to overcome setbacks and life lessons. This conversation is rooted in how they have reimagined their journeys to pursue their purpose and thrive to inspire your future paths.

UNC Charlotte remembers Charlotte business leader and philanthropist Wayland H. Cato Jr., who died Saturday, Nov. 4. Cato, 100, received an honorary doctorate in 2002 and was a longtime advocate for education. 

In recognition of Sen. Joyce Waddell’s personal generosity in support of student health and wellness, UNC Charlotte has renamed its Student Health Center in honor of the 1973 alumna.

Crowdfund UNC Charlotte is an online platform that harnesses the power of the broader UNC Charlotte community to help students, faculty and staff create detailed campaigns and raise funds to fuel their passions, innovations and ideas. It enables students to become leaders and fosters a philanthropic force across campus.

A $1 million gift from UNC Charlotte alumna, business innovator and Board of Trustees emerita Susan Dodson DeVore ’81 will establish a leadership program that will support the next generation of women leaders.

UNC Charlotte is gearing up for the biggest celebration of the year with gatherings, performances, spirit contests and more, all culminating with the signature Homecoming events.

On her forearm is a butterfly and Reed’s name, in his handwriting. The two are bound by a lemniscate, the symbol for infinity.

“My biggest fear is that Reed will be forgotten,” Julie Parlier says of her son, her tattoo honoring his memory and signifying that she, of course, will never forget.

UNC Charlotte and boutique jeweler Kendra Scott are partnering for a fundraising event to benefit the Ellis Reed Parlier Scholarship. From Sept.15-30, 20% of all online proceeds will be donated to the scholarship. 

Penny Hawkins has been appointed associate vice chancellor for development at UNC Charlotte. She has served in the role in an interim capacity since July 15, 2022. She succeeds Beth Crigler, who was appointed recently vice chancellor for university advancement.