Generations reunite at SGA’s inaugural Alumni Dinner

The Campbell University Student Government Association (SGA) hosted its inaugural SGA Alumni Dinner on April 17 during Alumni Weekend, bringing together generations of student leaders for an evening centered on honoring legacy of the past and inspiring leaders for the future.

More than 30 SGA alumni returned to campus for the event, joined by their guests and current SGA members for a total attendance of over 80 attendees. The event was a unique opportunity to reconnect former student leaders with one another while building relationships with the next generation of Campbell leadership.

The program opened with welcome remarks from SGA Vice President Anne AshLee Greene, who also led planning of the event.

"In this room, we have graduates from the Class of 1963 through the Class of 2025," Greene said. "While much has changed over the years, what remains constant is the shared experience of serving in the Student Government Association and the impact that service continues to have on this university."

The evening included a networking reception featuring an artifact table that highlighted SGA's history. Attendees browsed through past editions of the Pine Burr yearbook, historic SGA election ballots, SGA documents and awards, and a specially curated booklet featuring the names and photos of every SGA president. The display sparked conversation among alumni, many of whom had not seen one another in years.

For Victoria Hecht, Class of 1991 and former SGA executive secretary, the evening marked a long-awaited return to campus after decades away.

"I'm grateful for this trip back for Alumni Weekend, particularly the SGA Alumni Dinner," Hecht said. "What a wonderful way to reunite with longtime friends.. and to meet the young people who continue to forge that path for future leaders.. I cannot wait for my next trip back to campus."

Dr. Faithe Beam, vice president for Student Life & Christian Mission, offered remarks on behalf of the University, welcoming alumni back to campus and highlighting the continued impact of student leadership at Campbell. She also noted several areas where SGA advocacy has contributed to improving the student experience, affirming that alumni could take pride in the work being done today.

Guests then enjoyed a complimentary dinner before the evening's featured alumni panel discussion, moderated by SGA President Cutler Bryant. Panelists included former U.S. Congressman Bob Etheridge('65); Kristy Meares Sides ('01) and member of the Presidential Board of Advisors; Matthew Brubaker ('01) and SGA President from 1999-2000; and Aviel Eubanks ('25) and SGA President from 2024-2025.

The panel focused on how experiences in SGA helped shape each speaker's professional journey, with discussions centered on Campbell's hallmarks of character, initiative, and calling. Panelists reflected on leadership lessons, pivotal moments in their careers, and the lasting influence of their time as student leaders.

Capping off the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Distinguished SGA Alumni Award to Duke Jones, Class of 1965, recognizing his lifetime of leadership and service. Jones was joined by his daughter, two grandchildren, and longtime friend who also served in SGA, Emerson Glenn Lindsay.

In presenting the award, Bryant emphasized the purpose of the recognition.

"This award is meant to recognize individuals whose leadership did not end when they left Campbell, but continued to grow, to serve, and to reflect the very best of what this organization stands for," Bryant said. "Jones embodies those characteristics."

Jones served as SGA President from 1964-1965 and got his first post-graduate job as an admissions counselor for Campbell University. He went on to build a distinguished career in higher education and the private sector, including leadership roles at various companies, and as CEO of Off Campus Partners. His connection to Campbell has remained strong, including ongoing support for student leadership.

Reflecting on the evening, Jones expressed appreciation for the honor and reflected on his time in student government.

"This is an incredible honor, and it is one of the highest honors of my life," Jones said. "I loved my time in student government, it meant a lot to me, and still means a lot. I will cherish my time in student government, and encourage all of you young people to do the same."

The event was made possible through a partnership between SGA and the Alumni Association and supported by Wiggins Memorial Library. With its inaugural success, the SGA Alumni Dinner is expected to become a lasting tradition that continues to honor legacy while inspiring future generations of leaders.

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