Written by Lexx Thornton
Benedict College proudly commemorates a significant philanthropic milestone as alumni and supporters around the world celebrate over a decade of exceeding annual fundraising goals. For the eleventh consecutive year, the Benedict College Tigers have surpassed expectations—this time by a notable margin. The 2025 Annual Fund goal of $1.7 million was exceeded by $17,222.00, resulting in a total of $1,717,222.00 raised in support of the College’s mission and students. All contributions reported in the Annual Giving Campaign are funds that have been received and not future pledges or commitments.
“Sustaining this remarkable level of philanthropic momentum since 2014 is no small achievement,” said Ada Brown Belton, Assistant Vice President for InstitutionalAdvancement.”Our consistent success in exceeding fundraising goals is a direct reflection of the deep passion and unwavering commitment of Benedict College’s alumni.”
This year’s record-setting campaign was skillfully led by Chairwoman Dr. Elsie Hamler and Co-Chair Marlene McClerklin, in partnership with a team of devoted volunteers who worked diligently to mobilize support across the Benedict College alumni network.
“We commend the outstanding leadership of Dr. Hamler and Ms. McClerklin and extend our deepest gratitude to the remarkable Benedict Tigers and friends whose generous contributions made this achievement possible,” stated Mr. Rod Casey, President of the Benedict College National Alumni Association. “Their continued investment will have a direct and transformative impact on the lives of deserving students.”
Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, President and CEO of Benedict College, emphasized the distinctive generosity of the institution’s alumni. Benedict alumni consistently outperform expectations. Though modest in number, their philanthropic impact exceeds that of many peer institutions. The average gift of $1,436.00 reflects not only generosity, but a profound belief in the value of a Benedict College education.”
Of the 63 alumni clubs that reported fundraising outcomes, 31 clubs, or 49% successfully met or surpassed their individual goals, contributing meaningfully to the campaign’s overall success.
“For 11 consecutive years, our alumni club presidents have galvanized their members to support Benedict College in exceptional ways,” noted Co-Chairwoman McClerklin. “Their leadership, dedication, and love for the College continue to be the driving force behind over a decade of giving.”
Chairwoman Dr. Elsie Hamler offered heartfelt commendations to all who contributed to this year’s extraordinary success. “Bravo to our alumni club presidents, reunion classes, and the Top Ten Alumni Clubs,” she stated. “Over the past 11 years, Benedict College alumni have collectively contributed more than $16,623,505 in support of the College. Since the appointment of our 14th President, Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, alumni have provided more than $10,669,264 specifically toward the Alumni Campaign.”
This remarkable achievement underscores the unwavering commitment and philanthropic spirit of Benedict College alumni, whose sustained generosity has resulted in an over-decade-long record of surpassing the $1 million annual fundraising threshold.
“The unparalleled selflessness demonstrated by the leadership of the Benedict College Annual Campaign, coupled with the profound loyalty of our alumni community, has propelled this campaign to unprecedented levels of success,” said Dr. Hamler.
The enduring success of the Annual Fund is a reflection of strong leadership and collective effort. Distinguished recognition is due to Mr. Rod Casey, President of the Benedict College National Alumni Association, as well as to the Annual Fund Committee, alumni club presidents, and the broader alumni body. Their dedication and tireless advocacy has been instrumental in the campaign’s outcomes.
The College also acknowledges the essential support provided by the Office of Alumni Relations and Advancement Services, under the leadership of Ada Brown Belton, Assistant Vice President for Institutional Advancement. Ms. Belton and her team have played a critical role in organizing and sustaining the campaign’s momentum.
Together, these efforts represent not merely financial contributions but a shared legacy of pride, purpose, and enduring commitment to the mission of Benedict College.