By Staff Report, posted Jul 7, 2026 on BizFayetteville.com

Fayetteville State University received a historic $250,000 gift from its National Alumni Association during the organization’s second annual scholarship gala on June 27 at the Rudolph Jones Student Center.
The record-breaking contribution marks a significant increase from the association's inaugural fundraiser last year, which raised $106,000. The new funds will provide vital financial support for student scholarships and athletic programs, and expand resources for the Broncos Helping Broncos Student Emergency Fund.
"On behalf of Fayetteville State University, I extend my sincere gratitude to the National Alumni Association leadership and the dedicated donors who contributed to this investment," Chancellor Darrell T. Allison said in a press release. "This collective generosity creates enduring opportunities for our students and builds a stronger foundation for our university's future."
The gala also marked a major leadership transition for the association. Linda Coley concluded her distinguished tenure as president, capping her leadership with university alumni giving levels exceeding 10%.
Beginning July 1, Coley will transition into a new role as a strategic consultant to the University Advancement team. In this position, she will collaborate with Wesley Fountain, Vice Chancellor for External Affairs and Military Relations Interim Vice Chancellor for University Advancement, to further national alumni engagement.
"Mrs. Coley's institutional knowledge and deep relationships with alumni across the country will be a valuable asset to our ongoing efforts," Fountain said in a press release.
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