A Challenge from the Class of 1980

Class of 1986 Challenge


Raising money for an organization is always a challenging experience. It takes planning and much effort because your vision is success. Each year the National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc. (NHAA) implements a strategic plan to find innovative and unique ways to encourage the Hampton Family to give to the Alumni Giving Fund. It’s important to give at reunion time. But, it is equally important to give annually that helps increase our donor base and monetary giving. Those of you who are in corporate America know that many organizations solicit contributions for their fund raising activities. The first thing senior executives want to know is what are your alumni contributing to the giving program. Currently, we have about 18% of 25,000 alumni contributing to the Alumni Giving Program. This is not where we want to be compared to our sister schools with an average donor level of 35-40%. They have higher averages because their alumnus contributes annually, as well as during their reunion years. NHAA, Inc.’s goal is to encourage alumni to be consistent contributors while you focus on the larger contribution for your reunion year. We also want you to understand that giving what you can is appreciative.

The Class of 1980 has raised the bar of giving to an unprecedented level for classes celebrating its 25th reunion year. In 2005, this class presented its contribution of $100,000 to NHAA, Inc. and Hampton University at Reunion Weekend. The standard was set that initiated the challenge for reunion classes from 1981 and above to continue this level of giving. Class of 1986, accept the challenge and go forward with achieving this goal as good stewards of the Hampton Family. It’s about what you can do for your alma mater. And, you do it well.


Anthony Cheatham, President
National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc.