Golden reunion class sets $1 million fundraising goal

Golden reunion alums taking three person group photo

By Deidra Hill, Ed.D.

The Class of 1975, which processed during 2025 Commencement Convocation, has raised more than $607 million of its $1 million goal. Recognized during the Honor Roll Golden Luncheon during Commencement weekend, the class campaign continues through December 31. Top fundraising donors were recognized at the luncheon.

The goal of the honor roll luncheon was to recognize all donors who contributed at various levels to the Impact Howard Funds, which are a collection of unrestricted giving opportunities that support Howard University and our students.

The Classes of 1960, 1965 and 1975, which were celebrated during Reunion weekend at Commencement in May, participated in the campaigns. The class of 1970 raised funds not only for the Impact Howard Funds but also for their endowed class fund.

The highlight during the Honor Roll Golden Luncheon was the celebration of the class of 1975, which includes the Rev. Dr. Bernard L. Richardson, dean of Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel.

The Class of 1970, which includes Dean Emerita Phylicia Rashad (’70, BFA, cum laude) celebrating her 55th class reunion, set a goal of $500,000, which has already been attained. As of June 17, the Class of 1970 has raised $530,007.97. The campaign is still ongoing through December 31.

The classes of 1960 and 1965 raised respectively $24,430 and $47,751.23.

It is not too late to give to your Golden reunion class and the Classes of 1960, 1965 and 1970. Donate now at Donation · Howard University · GiveCampus

During the reunion luncheon, the top fundraising donors were recognized for their tireless efforts to support the fundraising campaign.

For the Class of 1970, the Golden Reunion Fundraiser Champion Award was presented to Mrs. Deborah Carpenter Brittain, who made the highest donation in her class.

For the Class of 1975, the Golden Reunion Fundraiser Champion Award was presented to Marie L. Young, M.D., for the highest donation in her class.

“The annual giving strategy, the determination of the classes’ reunion committee and the dedication of the fundraising chairs contributed to the success of the Golden Reunion campaign,” said El Hadji Diagne, associate director of annual giving, reunions and constituent groups.

“I particularly salute the fundraising co-chairs who lead by showcasing their substantial fiduciary contribution to inspire other classmates to answer the call,” he added.

The co-chairs for the classes are:

Class of 1970
Mrs. Deborah C. Brittain
Sheila Harley Washington

Class of 1975
Maria J. Hankerson, PhD Fundraising Co-Chair
Marie L. Young, M.D. Fundraising Co-Chair
Anita Stearns Mayo, Esq. Chair
Atty. Donald Temple Co-Chair

Categories

Beyond the Yard, Featured Stories, July 2025 Newsletter and Giving