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This year's Founder's Day speaker will be a fellow Eagle returning home.
Peggy Ward, a 1974 alumna, will speak at the Founder's Day program on Friday, Oct. 29.
Ward graduated as a business major with a concentration in financial management.
She became a successful insurance agent for the New York Life Insurance Company and has been employed with them for 30 years.
Ward has received a National Sales Achievement award, National Quality award, and Underwriter of the Year while being in the top five percent of insurance agents worldwide for her exemplary work.
"My plan is to honor Dr. Shepard as well as pay tribute to the many graduates and alumni who encouraged my continued involvement with NCCU," said Ward.
She added that she is "very humbled and very honored" to be the speaker.
Ward said she enjoys NCCU homecomings and has only missed one since she graduated.
"It gives alumni and friends an opportunity to see how Dr. Shepard's legacy has multiplied in so many ways," said Ward.
Earlier this year Ward received the Shepard Medallion.
The medallion is awarded to individuals who have participated with the University in their communities, or in their line of work in an outstanding manner while providing "Truth and Service" — the NCCU motto.
Ward was chosen by Chancellor Nelms to receive this medal.
Ward said she supports the Chancellor and his efforts to improve the GPA of students at NCCU.
"Our students must have the desire to excell beyond their predecessors," she said.
Ward has remained involved at her alma mater, serving as president of NCCU's National Alumni Association, chair of fundraising for the NCCU Foundation, and as chair and a member of the Board of Trustees.
Ward has also been on the Board of Trustees for UNC-TV.
While there, Ward served as chair for the Advancement Committee.
Ward also makes time to help out at a men's shelter through her church in Charlotte.
Ward said NCCU has advanced dramatically since she graduated.
Her advice to students looking for employment during this economy is to do plenty of networking while at NCCU.
"Excell in your major, pursue internship as early as your freshman year and ‘camp out' in the placement center," she said. "All will help students find the job they are looking for."
Ward also added that students should plan on giving back to the University after they graduate.
Ward's speech will be one of the many events going on during Homecoming. Students, faculty and alumni can look forward to the Miss NCCU Coronation, choir ball, lyceum, a comedy show, a fashion show, a step show, a concert and of course the big game, just to name a few things.
Many of these events are free.
There is a package deal for $40 that will grant entry into many of the Homecoming main events.
Come out and celebrate with the Eagles during this festive period and put on your maroon and grey.
Make sure to stop by McDougald-McLendon Gymnasium on Oct. 29 to hear Peggy Ward deliver her Founder's Day speech.
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