A Night of Unapologetic Excellence: FVSU Celebrates 130 Years and President Jones’ Decade of Service

A Night of Unapologetic Excellence: FVSU Celebrates 130 Years and President Jones' Decade of Service

Fort Valley State University (FVSU) capped a historic weekend of celebration with its President's Gala on Saturday, September 13. Held at The Whitley Hotel in Atlanta Buckhead, the sold-out event themed "130 Years of Unapologetic Excellence," was a highlight of the University's yearlong anniversary celebrations. More than just a milestone, the President's Gala also served as a tribute to President Paul A. Jones, Ph.D., and First Lady Sylvia Jones, recognizing their 10 years of transformative leadership and dedication to FVSU.

The weekend began with FVSU's football game against Clark Atlanta University on Thursday, followed by a pre-gala rooftop party at Ascent Rooftop Lounge on Friday evening. Saturday's festivities included a pre-gala reception, where the FVSU Jazz Band performed to welcome guests before they entered the ballroom washed in blue and gold. Together, these events brought alumni, donors and friends of the university to Atlanta for a weekend of fellowship, reflection and philanthropy.

The President's Gala, hosted by acclaimed actor Palmer Williams Jr., brought together more than 400 guests for a night of elegance, awards and entertainment. Assisting throughout the evening were the FVSU Bluecoat Ambassadors, who guided guests and supported program logistics, and Mister and Miss FVSU, Demar Richards and Jordan Gallemore, who assisted in presenting awards to honorees.

Karen Wright, vice president for Advancement and director of the FVSU Foundation opened with a powerful message about the importance of investing in student success. Wright recognized lead sponsors Diageo Brands and Sodexo for their critical support. "Every dollar raised tonight is an investment in human potential," she said. "Together, we are shaping a legacy that speaks boldly."

The first awards for the evening were presented by President Jones and Timothy Hatchett, Ph.D., vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. The Presidential Partnership Awards, honoring individuals and organizations whose advocacy and investment have been transformative for FVSU were awarded to The Honorable Calvin Smyre, an FVSU alumnus and former Georgia legislator, was recognized for his decades of leadership and service. Georgia Power was also honored for its longstanding commitment to scholarships, workforce development and educational equity, with Patrick Harris accepting on the company's behalf.

The Legacy Academic Achievement Awards went to Atrium Health Navicent, accepted by CEO and President Delvecchio Finley, for its role in advancing healthcare access and student wellness, and Diageo North America, accepted by Head of Community Engagement and Partnerships Danielle Robinson, Ph.D., whose $12 million investment in HBCUs included a $250,000 endowment to FVSU. The Legacy Academic Achievement Awards were presented by Emma Bennett Williams, J.D., FVSU's chief of staff and interim chief human resources officer, and Michelle Martin, vice president for Business and Finance.

The Academic Trailblazer Awards, presented by Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Derrick Scott, Ph.D., Angela Fussell, FVSU Foundation board member, and Vice President of Land Grant Affairs and Dean for the College of Agriculture, Family Science and Technology Keith Howard, Ph.D. The awards celebrated Isaac Crumbly, Ph.D., associate vice president and director of Cooperative Developmental Energy Program, the late Clinton Dixon, Ph.D., and Robert Steele, MD, Ph.D., for their lasting impact on FVSU students and STEM education.

Wright presented the Visionary Award to President Jones and Mrs. Sylvia Jones in recognition of their decade of leadership. The couple received a standing ovation as they accepted the honor. "This award is not about us-it is about the students whose futures are brighter because of the generosity of this community," said President Jones. "Together, we will continue building unapologetic excellence for the next 130 years."

Entertainment throughout the evening reflected both FVSU's legacy and its bright future. The FVSU Choir, under the direction of Alicia Carner-McDonald, delivered a stirring performance, followed by alumni veterinarians Dr. Vernard Hodges and Dr. Terrance Ferguson of National Geographic's Critter Fixers: Country Vets, who energized the room with a fundraising paddle raise. A silent auction, which closed later in the night, also helped the university raise more funds to support student scholarships. The gala concluded with a headline performance from Grammy Award-winning artist Q. Parker of 112, bringing guests to their feet and on the dance floor.

Wright closed the evening by thanking donors, sponsors and participants. "Tonight was more than a celebration; it was a reminder of what can be achieved when we unite under a common purpose," she said. "Your generosity will empower the possible for generations of Wildcats to come."

With its blend of elegance, recognition and generosity, the President's Gala underscored FVSU's legacy of unapologetic excellence while charting a bold course for the future.

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