Stonecoming

Monthly Class Meeting - Class of '78

2nd Tuesday of each month from 8pm - 9pm (EST) 5pm - 6pm (Pacific Time - Los Angeles) Via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87009017762?pwd=9R9P3xdE4X9Im7SsC1nkgCRq7YKmuc.1&jst=3

passcode 240625


Monthly Meeting Agenda October 13, 2026

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87009017762?pwd=9R9P3xdE4X9Im7SsC1nkgCRq7YKmuc.1&jst=3

passcode 240625

OCTOBER 13, 2026, 8:00 PM EST, 5:00 PM Pacific Time

Presiding: Reginald Ballard, Class Agent

  1. Opening Prayer
  1. Town Hall with Deborah Walker, Director of Alumni Engagement
  1. Committee Reports

â–ª Communications â–ª Activities â–ª Location/Venue â–ª Catering â–ª Decorations â–ª Souvenir â–ª Memorial â–ª Parade â–ª T-Shirt/Polo â–ª Meet -n- Greet â–ª Friday Convocation â–ª Program 4) Financial Report Zelle link = [email protected]

Wells Fargo Balance = 9323.97 · Benevolence = 182.00 · Class Gift = 9141.97 HomeTrust = 16644.16 (CD matures 10/29/2026) TOTAL FUNDS = 25968.13

  1. Questions and Answers for Financial Proposal prepared by G.Hill
  1. Closing Prayer

· If there are items that you would like to add, please call or text Reginald Ballard, Class Agent, at 919-547-3095.

· Please review the summary of the notes from September 8th, 2026 meeting. These notes were sent out by George Hill.



NEXT STEPS

Dear Blue Bears of the Class of 1978:

We have celebrated birthdays, hosted our 13th President, bid farewell to classmates, and enjoyed Stonecoming 2026! As we continue building on the connections, memories, and shared experiences that brought us together, we have an opportunity to turn that energy into meaningful action. Each of us has something valuable to contribute, and together, we can make a real difference.

May I suggest our next steps:

  1. If you purchased a brick and have not received your brick, please send your name to Eunice by email ([email protected]) or text (336-662-5982) no later than October 11, 2026. Eunice will send the list to Carmen Wilder, Director of Alumni Engagement. Under the leadership of President Davis, LC plans to be accountable. Providing your names, as well as, those who may be on pause.
  1. Mark your calendar for our Monthly Zoom Meetings. Our class meets virtually on the second Tuesday of every month at 8:00 PM. We will use the same Zoom link for each meeting, making it easy for everyone to stay connected. Your presence, ideas, and participation are important! Our next meeting is October13th. Our guest is Debra Walker.
  1. Review the Report from George Hill. Please take time to review the email sent on 08/13/26 at 1:31am by George Hill. This email has 5 attachments. Go to Blue Bear Legacy Phase I and complete Recruitment & Skills Sign up. This form should be sent to George Hill before the October meeting. Remember that we all bring something different to the table and that diversity is one of our greatest strengths.
  1. Review the Committee Assignments Please review the attached committee assignment. If you have been asked to serve on a committee, consider how your skills, experience, and personal interests can benefit that committee and the class. Your willingness to serve is an important part of making our plans successful. Each committee should meet and be prepared to discuss your ideas at our October meeting. This means that someone on each committee must initiate contact with the other members.
  1. Class Giving and Benevolence If you would like to make a contribution, the Zelle link is:[email protected]. You may, also, make checks payable to LC Class of 1978 and mail to Eunice Jones-Obeng, PO Box 102 Reidsville, NC 27323 When sending your contribution, please be sure to indicate in the memo whether your gift is for the Class Gift or for Benevolence. This will help ensure that every contribution is properly designated.

Most importantly, let's become engaged, stay connected, and continue the momentum to support one another. This is more than a series of meetings or assignments-- it is an opportunity to use our collective gifts, strengthen our class community, and leave a positive impact. Every person matters. Every gift matters. Every contribution of time, talent, encouragement, or resources matters.

I am excited about what we can accomplish together, and I hope each of you will join us for this next chapter!

With enthusiasm and appreciation,

Eunice Jones-Obeng

COMMITTEES

Communications: Robert Gatewood, Sheila Stokes Langford and George W.

Activities: Donna Gatling, George H., and Alice Hoskins Lee

Location: Linda Bowman Hopson and Ronald Keith

Catering: Millie Nelson Tillman and Susan Maxwell Watson

Decorations: Maurice Hill and Cynthia McCrae

Souvenir: Jackie Jones, Joe Jordan, Nicole Longino, and Miriam Thomas-Norris

Memorial: Robert Gatewood, Karen Simmons Jones, and Kathy Johnson Wilson

Parade: Isaac Dickson and Angela Cotton Jenkins

T-Shirt/Polo: Maurice Hill and Wanda Holmes Williams

Meet -n- Greet: Reginald Ballard, Patricia Howie Fox, and Gail Twilley Wimbush

Finance: Angela Cotton Jenkins, Natalie Sanders Harding, and George W.

Friday Convocation: Need volunteers

Program: Eunice Jones-Obeng and Need Volunteers

Passing of Classmate Joe Robinson

We sorrowfully regret to inform you of the passing of classmate Joseph Robinson. We will share additional details as they become available

Joe on the left. Also pictured is Samuel Dennis who passed several years prior

Joe is on the right

Passing of Classmate
Sharon Melton Taylor

We sorrowfully announce the passing another classmate. The letter below was posted on Faceook by her son.


Dear family and friends,

With humble acceptance of God's will, but also with a heavy heart, I share that my beloved mother, my Queen, Sharon Taylor, has passed away. She was not only an incredible mother, grandmother, and wife, but also a dear friend to so many. She was so loving and selfless, and even after realizing her fate, she continued to prioritize everyone else until her very last day. Her humor, wisdom, and warmth left an unforgettable mark on everyone she met and we are forever grateful for every precious memory. Her spirit will live on in the memories of everyone who knew her.

We find comfort in knowing she is at peace. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers as we remember her and celebrate her life. We kindly ask for patience as our family begins processing this tremendous loss. Details regarding her services and celebration of life will be shared when they become available.

To my best friend, my Queen, there is no more treatments, no more medication, no more hospital visits. You don't have to fight anymore. You can finally take your well deserved rest and be at peace with our Lord and Savior. I love you, my Angel.

Fly high my Queen


From the Family of Classmate Reginald Bynum

It is with heavy hearts that we share that our beloved Father, Reginald Bynum, has transitioned after fighting a long, hard battle with glioblastoma brain cancer.

Our family is heartbroken, but we are grateful that he is now at peace and no longer suffering. We are deeply thankful for the love, prayers, encouragement, and support so many of you have shown throughout his journey. Your kindness has meant more to us than words can express.

As we navigate this difficult time, we ask that you continue to keep our family in your thoughts and prayers.
Thank you for loving him and for walking alongside our family during this season.

🖤Public Viewing:
Friday, August 14, 2026
5:00-7:00pm
Engram Funeral Home
1001 Armory Drive
Franklin, VA 23851

🖤Funeral Services:
Saturday, August 15, 2026
11:00am
East End Apostolic Church
410 East Street
Franklin, VA 23851

🖤Internment immediately following the services:
Southampton Memorial Park
27396 Pretlow Rd
Franklin, VA 23851

🖤Floral arrangements
Williams Florist
22704 Main Street
Courtland, Va 23827
757-653-2042
Williamsfloristofva.com

LIVINGSTONE COLLEGE INAUGURAL TRAILBLAZERS AWARD

June 8. 2026 - Livingstone College Alumni

About the Award

Livingstone College Trailblazers Award recognizes 50 leaders who have made significant contributions in business, research, leadership, service, innovation, community engagement, politics, education, philanthropic endeavors, the arts, and other fields. The Trailblazers Celebration honors and spotlights 50 selected alumni whose achievements and impact have distinguished them as leaders and changemakers in their respective professions and communities.

The deadline for applications is June 19, 2026. We look forward to celebrating the excellence, influence, and legacy of Blue Bears across the nation.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible, honorees must:

  • Attend the Trailblazers Celebration Gala on Thursday, October 1, 2026.
  • Be willing to submit two photos for use in online, video, and/or printed materials.
  • Raise at least $1,000 for Livingstone College.

Please click here to submit an application for the Livingstone College Trailblazers Celebration Award.
Please click here to nominate someone for the Livingstone College Trailblazers Celebration Award.

Livingstone College Emeritus Class

Livingstone College recognizes alumni who have celebrated their 50th Class Reunion, beginning with the Class of 1950 and continuing through the Class of 1975. These distinguished graduates are encouraged to invest their time, talents, and treasures in their alma mater. Each year during Stonecoming Alumni Convocation, the Emeritus Class is formally recognized and honored.

The Emeritus Class was established to:

  • Reenergize the Livingstone College spirit among alumni.
  • Promote sustained financial support for Livingstone College.
  • Provide a minimum annual unrestricted contribution of $100,000 to the College.

Donations may be submitted by U.S. mail. Please send your contribution to:
Livingstone College Office of Alumni Affairs
701 West Monroe Street, Salisbury, NC 28144

When mailing your donation, please write Emeritus Class and your class year on the memo line of your check. The suggested donation from each alumnus is $500.00.

Day of Giving — June 26, 2026

Throughout the month of June, we are celebrating the people, traditions, memories, and opportunities that make Livingstone College a place we are proud to call home as we count down to our Day of Giving on June 26, 2026.

Your support helps create opportunities for current and future students while strengthening the legacy of Livingstone College for generations to come. Every gift, regardless of size, makes a meaningful impact.

Please click below to make your gift today.

Click here to make your gift!

LIVINGSTONE COLLEGE ALUMNI NEWS

June 4. 2026 - Livingstone College Alumni

Scholarship Luncheon Recognition

Livingstone College alumna Sarah Stout Lightner, daughter of Albert Stout, and Albert Stout Scholarship recipient Myrical Sumner were recognized at the WNCC Lay Council Annual Albert S. Stout Scholarship Luncheon.

— Submitted by Dr. Da'Tarvia Parrish

TRIO Scholars: Career & Graduate School Experience Day

In March, TRIO Student Support Service scholars participated in a Career and Graduate School Experience Day. The career session was led by Jeanene McBride, a representative of the NC Department of Administration and a Livingstone College alumna. Students received an overview of the division, learned about its key functions, explored internship opportunities and careers in state government, and participated in mock interviews. Following the session, students traveled to NC State University for a graduate school presentation.

"The visit to NCDOA was very informative, as I learned how the agency supports and manages resources in North Carolina." — Dorlesha Manyfield '27

TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) is a federally funded program through the Department of Education designed to support first-generation college students, low-income students, and individuals with disabilities. Livingstone College's SSS program has supported students for over 20 years.

— Submitted by LaTonya L. Johnson, M.S., Project Director, TRIO Programs | Student Support Services | Dodge Hall

Dr. Angela Alford Becomes Rowan County Magistrate

Congratulations to Livingstone College alumna Dr. Angela Alford on her appointment as Rowan County Magistrate.

— Submitted by Dr. Da'Tarvia Parrish

Dr. Laveria F. Hutchison Named 2026 University Teacher of the Year

The Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts is honored to recognize Dr. Laveria F. Hutchison as the 2026 University Teacher of the Year. This award celebrates exceptional university educators whose teaching, mentorship, and leadership have shaped the field of literacy. Dr. Hutchison has demonstrated more than five decades of unwavering commitment to literacy education at the University of Houston. Dr. Hutchison is a Livingstone College alumna, Class of 1969.

— Submitted by Dr. Annie Gavin, Class of 1969

Dr. Lamont Moore Named Superintendent of Williamsburg County School District

Congratulations to alumnus Dr. Lamont Moore on his appointment as the new Superintendent of Williamsburg County School District.

  • Livingstone College Class of 1999 | Magna Cum Laude
  • Center for Teaching Excellence Scholar
  • Dr. Jack Knox Award Recipient — Salisbury Civitan Club 1998
  • Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
  • Livingstone Prayer Meeting Choir | Livingstone Gospel Choir
  • Livingstone Empowering Scholars Program

Hazel Stout Kennedy Honored with Legacy of a Leader Award

Having served for decades as a teacher, Livingstone College alumna Hazel Stout Kennedy continues in that role and, because of her life of service, was honored with the Legacy of a Leader Award.

Livingstone College Helps Foster Care Youth Pursue Higher Education

Livingstone College: H.O.P.E. Emancipation Project

In the News by Garette Hunther - May 26, 2026

Livingstone College is committed to changing lives by providing foster care youth with a clear path to higher education. The H.O.P.E. Emancipation Project targets students aging out of foster care, offering comprehensive support for college success.

Financial Investment

Up to $35,000 covering tuition, on-campus housing, and meal plans.

Holistic Support

Coordinated mental health services for overall well-being.

Dedicated Coaching

Each student is paired with a success coach for academic and career guidance.

Early Success & Impact

The H.O.P.E. Alpha Cohort has already demonstrated significant achievements, transforming outcomes for students from foster care.

95%

Students persisting in college, with one graduate and another expected in December.

40%

Students maintaining GPAs between 3.5 and 4.0.

95%

Students reporting a strong sense of belonging on campus.

A Personal Commitment

"These students are just like me. My dream was deferred, delayed, but never denied. I am committed to ensuring that the same elevator that enabled me to go from Foster Care to The President’s Chair will be in place for someone else."

— President Anthony Davis

Finance Report

FINANCE REPORT (04/13/2026)

Members: Natalie Sanders Harding, Eunice Jones-Obeng, George F. Washington

  1. Account Balance as of 04/13/2026 = $8108.35
  1. Benevolence Fund = $ 220.00
  1. 50th Class Gift = $7888.35
  1. Balance in CD as of 04/13/2026 =
  1. xxx8723 $16,333.33
    CD matures on 07/29/2026
  1. xxx3029 $ 6818.69
    CD matures on 05/27/2026
  1. TOTAL FUNDS $31260.37
  1. Communications with Finance Team
  1. Please send to all three members of the Finance Team. This allows the team to be transparent and to help each other to promptly respond
  1. Contact information:
  1. 1. Natalie Saunders Harding: [email protected]
    1-336-408-6623 2.
  1. Eunice Jones-Obeng: [email protected]
    1-336-662-5982
  1. George F. Washington [email protected]
    1-540-420-2621

Submitted by

Eunice Jones-Oben

Chanel Quick Letter

From: Quick, Chanel [email protected]

Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:42 PM To: George F Washington; Eunice Jones-Obeng Cc: Teague, Pete; Natalie Harding; Millie Tillman; Reginald Ballard

Subject: Re: Good Afternoon

Good Afternoon Class of 1978,

I hope all is well! Thank you for your email. I responded to your email below.

  * That all contributions made on behalf of the Class of 1978 are restricted and cannot be disbursed without written authorization by the Finance Team  (the names of the Finance Team may change, but an update will be provided to LC). Presently, the members are Natalie Sanders Harding, Eunice Jones-Obeng, and George W. Washington. Yes, the funds will be restricted and will not be disbursed without written authorization by the Finance Team.  

* That LC will provide quarterly reports to the Finance Team, only, of the names and amounts of all donors Yes, the Finance Team will need to submit a request via email. The IA team will make sure the Finance Team receives the quarterly report with 72 business hours of the request. We are currently transitioning to a new system and cannot provide reports at this time.  

* That LC will provide quarterly reports to each individual donor No, LC will not provide quarterly reports to each individual donor. The new system we are transitioning to will allow donors to access their giving report. Donors can view all the gifts they have ever given to LC.   * That LC will send acknowledgement of each gift to the donor Yes, the Gift Records Office will send an acknowledgement of each gift to the donor. Livingstone College is currently in the process of hiring an Advancement Database Manager.  

* Provide address and instructions to make digital gifts We are currently transitioning to a new system. Currently, go to www.livingstone.edu<https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/? Click on Make A Gift Enter your donation amount in the box beside (enter only full dollars) Enter Class of 1978 for the department Click Add Tickets Click Checkout  

* Provide address and instructions to send gifts by mail. Livingstone College Office of Alumni Affairs 701 West Monroe Street Salisbury NC 28144

Please note that you should receive a revised list of the email addresses for the Class of 1978 from George W. Washington. Please confirm that upon receipt of this list, the Class 1978 will receive electronic notices of all events regarding LC. Upon receipt of the list, the Class of 1978 will be added to the email listserv within 72 business hours.

Finally, as of 02/25/2026, Natalie Sanders Harding had not received an acknowledgement of her gift that she made to LC in November, 2025. This concern was shared with you and Mr. Teague during our zoom conference in January, 2026. A letter was mailed to Natalie Sanders on February 12, 2026. I was notified that a letter was not received on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The letter was sent again via email on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, but there was no response to confirm the mailing address on the letter was correct. Communication is key. If a letter is not received within the given timeframe, please let IA now immediately so we can ensure it is sent. While I do not send the letters myself, I understand my colleagues are wearing multiple hats. It is important that someone in IA is notified when a letter is not received.

Please let me know if there is anything I can do to assist you. Thank you!

Best regards,

Chanel Quick

                       

50th Reunion Committees


                        BLUE BEARS OF 1978, YOU ARE NEEDED TO MAKE OUR 50TH REUNION THE BEST EVER!

Please notify our Class Agent, Reginald Ballard, at 1-910-547-3095 that you are available to serve on one of the Planning Committees.  If you do not see the name of a committee that you wish to join, create the name and notify Reginald. 

  1. In preparation for our next meeting (June 9, 2026 at 8pm), will each committee meet and be prepared to give a report? The report should be 2 mins maximum.

    The Committees are:
    > 1. Communications: Shelia Stokes-Langford and George Washington
    > 2. Activities/Events: George Hill, Alice Hoskins Lee, Donna Gatling
    > 3. Location/Date/Time: Linda Bowman Hopson and Ronald Keith
    > 4. Catering: Millie Nelson Tillman and Susan Watson
    > 5. Decorations: Maurice Hill and Cynthia McCrae
    > 6. Souvenir: Jackie Jones, Miriam Thomas Norris, Nicole Longino, and Joe Jordan
    > 7. Memorial: Karen Simmons Jones, Kathy Johnson Wilson, and Robert Gatewood
    > 8. Parade: Angela Cotton and Issac Dickson
    > 9. T-Shirt/Polo: Wanda Holmes Williams and Maurice Hill
    > 10. Meet and Greet: Reginald Ballard, Gail Twilley and Patricia Howie
    > 11. Finance: George Washington, Natalie Sanders Harding, and Eunice Jones-Obeng
    > 12. Attire for Friday Convocation
    > 13. Program

                                                                                                          

Next Meeting

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE NEXT VIRTUAL CLASS MEETING                                                                                 

TUESDAY, June 9th 2026                                                                                       

8:00 pm EST