Tuskegee University’s Eminent Associates Celebrate 60 Years with Historic Business Meeting and $708K Gift at Fall Convocation

Tuskegee University's Eminent Associates Celebrate 60 Years with Historic Business Meeting and $708K Gift at Fall Convocation

September 08, 2025

Contact: Kawana McGough, Division of Development and Alumni Engagement

Tuskegee, Ala. - Tuskegee University's Eminent Associates convened on campus this weekend for their Annual Business Meeting, marking the Diamond Anniversary of the organization's founding in 1965. This year's gathering was one of the largest attended in the program's history, underscoring the strength and commitment of alumni and friends dedicated to sustaining Tuskegee's mission.

The meeting was held at the General Daniel "Chappie" James Center Museum and included greetings from Tuskegee University President and CEO Dr. Mark A. Brown '86. Members also received development updates, reviewed financial goals, and recognized contributions by dedicated alumni and supporters.

This year's meeting was especially exciting, with more than 120 members in attendance-twice as many as the previous year. New and deserving awards were presented, and an excellent buffet was enjoyed by all. The fellowship was described as electrifying, as members reflected on the hard work leading up to this moment and celebrated both Tuskegee's rich past and its promising future.

As part of their commitment to fueling Tuskegee University's future, the Eminent Associates presented a gift of $708,065.44 for their FY 24-25 giving during the University's Fall Convocation Ceremony, including $35,450 raised during Saturday's meeting. This investment will directly support student success, scholarships, academic programs, and the university's continued rise as a premier research institution.

"The Eminent Associates represent a legacy of loyalty, leadership, love, and service to Mother Tuskegee," said Mrs. Lula Whigham-Marable, Chairwoman of the Eminent Associates. "For 60 years, our members have joined together to ensure the next generation of Golden Tigers have the resources they need to excel. We are proud to reaffirm our commitment to Tuskegee's Renaissance and its mission to solve the world's most complex problems."

Founded in 1965 and formally organized in 1975, the Eminent Associates program now includes more than 700 alumni and friends nationwide. Members provide annual support at levels ranging from Associate to the Founder's Circle, with benefits including recognition at university events, exclusive engagement opportunities, and direct impact on the institution's growth.

The Annual Business Meeting, held on the eve of Fall Convocation, remains a cornerstone of the society's work-providing members with firsthand insight into Tuskegee's strategic priorities and reaffirming their essential role in advancing the institution's mission.

For more information about how to join the Eminent Associates and continue this legacy of impact, please visit https://www.tuskegee.edu/eminentassociates.

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