WSSU to formally install Chancellor Bonita Brown as 14th and first permanent female chancellor
Winston-Salem State University will make history this weekend when it installs its 14th and first permanent female chancellor Bonita J. Brown, J.D.
The two-day event will feature a formal installation ceremony, a community Day of Service and conclude with a celebration gala and concert.
Brown was appointed 14th chancellor of Winston-Salem State University, effective July 1, 2024. She was elected by the University of North Carolina Board of Governors, following her nomination by University of North Carolina System President Peter Hans.
She recently served as the interim president at Northern Kentucky University. During her tenure, she led the campus through a leadership transition and in navigating significant financial challenges and declining enrollments.
Brown received her Bachelor of Arts in history from Wake Forest University and her Juris Doctor from Wake Forest University School of Law. Her parents, Bern and Freda Hairston, are both WSSU alumni.
Installation
The installation ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 19, at the Benton Convention Center in downtown Winston-Salem, 301 W. 5th St.
The event is free and open to the public but can also be viewed via livestream.
Day of Service
On Saturday, Sept. 20, WSSU will host a Day of Service Campus Beautification from 9 a.m. to noon. The entire campus community as well as alumni, friends and colleagues are invited to roll up their sleeves and help beautify the campus. From painting and landscaping to small building projects, there will be something for everyone to show their Ram pride.
The first 50 volunteers will receive a complimentary ticket to cheer on the Rams at the home football game against Virgina State University at 1 p.m. at Bowman Gray Stadium, following the Day of Service.
To sign up to volunteer, click here. Parking for volunteers is available in Lot U.
Inaugural gala
The historic weekend concludes on Saturday evening with a celebration gala and concert at 6 p.m. at the Benton Convention Center. Guests are invited to experience an unforgettable night featuring the soulful sounds of recording artist Lalah Hathaway.
The event is formal evening wear and black tie preferred. Tickets are available here.
For more information about all the installation events, click here.
