UNC Asheville is saddened to learn of the passing of Representative Wilma M. Sherrill on December 18, 2025 at the age of 86.

Representative Sherrill has been a supporter of UNC Asheville since the 1960s, when she helped form the first Bulldog fundraising club, and she has remained a dedicated supporter of UNC Asheville Athletics since then.

"Wilma Sherrill was one of UNC Asheville's most steadfast and ardent supporters for decades," UNC Asheville Chancellor Kimberly van Noort said. "Her commitment to the University has had a tremendous positive impact on our students and the entire campus community."

Her largest contribution to the University was in her role as a member of the North Carolina House of Representatives, when she helped secure funding for the 133,500-square-foot Sherrill Center which houses the Health Sciences Department and the N.C. Center for Health and Wellness. The facility, named in her honor, is also home to Kimmel Arena, which hosts the University's biannual Commencement ceremonies and is the home court for the UNC Asheville men's and women's basketball programs.

"UNC Asheville has lost a devoted advocate whose tireless support strengthened our athletic programs and community," Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone said. "We are grateful for Wilma's many contributions and the positive opportunities she created for our university. The entire athletics family sends sincere condolences to her loved ones."

Representative Sherrill's support of the UNC Asheville also included her service on numerous University boards, including UNC Asheville Board of Trustees for nine years, the Bulldog Athletic Association for over ten years, and several committees tasked with hiring coaches and administrators. She was also UNC Asheville's Special Assistant to the Chancellor on External Affairs from 2008 to 2009.

In recognition of her service to the University, Representative Sherrill was inducted into the UNC Asheville Athletics Hall of Fame in 2019. The University will hold a celebration of life for Representative Sherrill in the Sherrill Center during the Spring 2026 semester.