History of the Association

The Virginia State University Alumni Association (VSUAA) was organized in 1889. N.T. Goldsbery was elected as the Association’s first president. Although there were only a few intermitted gatherings and meetings held by the Association during the years between 1889 and 1903, by 1904 a more permanent organization had been formed.

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In the early years of the Association, only one chapter existed - the national chapter. However, by 1914 the Alumni Association grew in size and ambition as eight chapters across the state of Virginia had been established. These chapters were located in Alexander; Smithfield; Suffolk; Richmond; Petersburg; Fredericksburg; Norfolk; and Boiling Green. In addition to these chapters, several organizations already on campus were organized to support the mission and goals of the Association. Some of these organizations included: the Tongue and Pen Society; The Training School; The April Group; the November Group; the Leap Year Group, The October Group, and the Victory Group.

Throughout the Association's rich history, 37 individuals have served as president of the Alumni Association. The first female president was Josie P. Harris, who assumed office in 1899. The longest-serving president was Milton T. Bailey who served from 1903-1932, totaling 29 years. The youngest serving president has been Franklin Johnson, Jr. who was 29 at the time he assumed office.

For more than a century, the Alumni Association’s mission has been twofold: 1) to foster lifelong relationships between the University and its alumni and 2) to support the University’s programs and mission. The Association has supported the University in various ways, including providing money for scholarships, recruiting students to the University, and supporting the University’s music and athletics programs. Although no accurate record can be found that documents how much money or how many students the Alumni Association has been responsible for, three early projects can be documented.

History

These include: 1) the purchase of the property where Locket Hall now stands in 1919, which was supposed to be called from that date, “The Alumni Field”, 2) the purchase of the Memorial Bench located on the Front Campus in 1939, and 3) the purchase of the University “Mace” in 1957.

With such a long life the Association has faced many challenges and seen many changes. In large measure, it reflects the much broader history of the University. Today, with a membership roster of over 1,000 and over 50 active chapters located across the country, the Virginia State University Alumni Association continues to be a committed partner to the University.

COVID-19 Latest Updates and Information

Here is the latest information on COVID-19 in Virginia.   Click here for the latest information on COVID-19 in Virginia

VSU Receives $100,000 Commitment From Newport News Shipbuilding

Virginia State University is pleased to announce that HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division has generously pledged $100,000 over five years to the university to establish the Newport News Shipbuilding Scholars Program. This program aims to provide financial assistance and mentorship to underrepresented students pursuing engineering and related degrees at VSU.

The Newport News Shipbuilding Scholars Program will provide much-needed support to students who may face financial barriers. The program will offer scholarships to cover educational expenses, as well as mentorship and internship opportunities with professionals in the engineering industry. This will help students achieve their academic goals and provide them with valuable experience and connections as they enter the workforce.

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CIAA Tournament 2024

CIAA 2024 is right around the corner! Don’t wait until the last minute to get your tickets for the VSU Official CIAA 2024 Alumni Events! Ticket prices are as follows:

  • CIAA All - Alumni Party Ram’s Head Live! - $40 general admission
  • Joint Alumni Gathering - $15 general admission / $20 VIP
  • Official VSU CIAA Meet & Greet - $50

Please visit giving.vsu.edu/CIAA24 to purchase your tickets today!

Happy Birthday To All VSU Alumni Born In February

Here's to another year of good health and happiness. We hope it's a great day!

    Vote Mister and Miss VSU As The Next Mister and Miss CIAA

    The 2024 CIAA Basketball Tournament begins February 26th and includes the Mister & Miss CIAA Scholarship Competition. The CIAA is proud to support the conference kings and queens being recognized through the competition.

    The Mister & Miss CIAA Scholarship Competition recognizes individuals who stand out in the areas of professionalism, academics, campus and community involvement, and public service. On March 2nd, during “Super Saturday” at the Baltimore Convention Center, one conference king and queen will be crowned and presented with $2,500 scholarships. These titles are determined by a combination of various judged and non-judged components - one of which is voting.

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    Vote For Miss VSU Aliyah Mayers 
    Vote For Mister VSU Christopher Lawrence 
    1. VSU Makes History As The First HBCU In The Country Selected To Host A General Election Presidential Debate
    2. VSU Alum, General (Ret) Dennis L. Via Appointed To The VSU Board of Visitors
    3. Alumni Weekend 2024
    4. Become A VSU Class Coordinator

    CONTACT US

    VSU Alumni Association
    P.O. Box 2488
    Petersburg, VA 23804

    Phone: (804) 605-6598
    Email : info2@vsuaaonline.com

    Report Website Errors to:
    stayinformed@vsuaaonline.com

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