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50 years brings many cheers

NCCU Society of Golden Eagles inducts the class of 1961 at Founder’s Day Convocation

Published: Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Updated: Wednesday, November 2, 2011 12:11

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Carla Aaron Lopez/Echo staff photographer

Golden Eagles celebrate their 50 years since graduating from NCCU with a group photo.

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Carla Aaron Lopez/Echo staff photographer

Golden Eagles Ethel Aaron and Eunice Brewington Pharr.

"The Eagle is no ordinary bird," said Chancellor Charlie Nelms at the 64th Founder's Day convocation October 28. The Founder's Day Convocation is when The Golden Eagle Society inducts its newest members.

The Golden Eagle Society recognizes alumni celebrating their 50th anniversary of being N.C. Central University graduates. "Fifty years, that's a long time," said Zion Gray, a Business Management freshman.

The class of 1961 inducted 60 alumni, including the Founder's Day keynote speaker, Dr. Clarence G. Williams and his wife Mildred, going into the Society of Golden Eagles.

"There have been lots of changes," said Ethel Warren Aaron, a 1961 Home Economics graduate.

 In 1961, John F. Kennedy was president. Apartheid still existed in South Africa. And the Freedom Riders started their journey for racial equality.

In 2011, the United States has an African American president, apartheid is non-existent, and African Americans have achieved racial equality under the law.

The 60 inductees returned to NCCU to see the changes that have occurred on the campus since they graduated. Chidley Hall has been reconstructed, a new bookstore has been built in the multi-million-dollar parking deck, the new W. G. Pearson cafeteria has been erected, and the Centennial Gardens beautify the campus.

"It feels wonderful," said Aaron. "I didn't foresee this day. I'm surprised so many people were here." 

 Aaron, a Charlotte resident, said her son, daughter, granddaughter and other family members graduated from NCCU.

Carla Aaron Lopez, Aaron's granddaughter, returned to her alma mater to see her grandmother become a Golden Eagle.

"It was pretty cool because five years ago she saw me walk across the stage," said Aaron Lopez.

Eagles soar and The Golden Eagle Society have reached new heights in life.

"They are good role models for students," said Cedric Cornelius mathematics freshman. "They are keeping history alive and we have to do the same thing," said Tyler Leak music senior. 

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