Oct. 1, 2024 | Kate Burke
Family Weekend 2024 kicked off in Seahawk fashion with a number of spirited events to celebrate the University of North Carolina Wilmington student experience - and the opportunity for students and families to come together to engage in campus life.
The UNCW Alumni Association (UNCWAA) joined in the weekend festivities by honoring the past and celebrating the future with the hosting of the 17th annual Legacy Pinning Ceremony, featuring 75 legacy students - and providing a unique opportunity for UNCW alumni family members to celebrate and "pin" their newly minted Seahawk students.
"Each student is affectionately referred to as a legacy student because they have a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, cousin or sibling who is a UNCW alumnus," said Lindsay LeRoy, UNCWAA Executive Director. "Students, you're here today, not only because of your hard work, but also because of the family member who inspired you to follow in their footsteps - this is a gift that needs to be honored. As legacies, you are carrying on a proud tradition of excellence - always carry the Seahawk spirit with you and represent the university and your family with honor and distinction."
Assisted by Colleen O'Neil, Director of Alumni Engagement Programming, and UNCWAA Board of Directors members and legacy parents Robert Abbotts '85 and Wanda Coley '96, LeRoy served as the master of ceremonies in recognition of the legacy students who were joined on stage to be pinned by their alumni family members. Legacy students were supported by more than 90 alumni in attendance as well as more than 125 extended family members.
"This moment is a testament to the unique bond we share - a connection that transcends generations and highlights the extraordinary spirit of UNCW," said Kim Falcone Sousa '94, UNCWAA board of director's secretary, Parents Council member and legacy parent.
"As legacy families, we carry forward a tradition that unites our love of this remarkable institution. It's a bond that reminds us all that UNCW is truly a special place, like no other," she continued.
Sousa, who also serves on the marketing department advisory committee for the Cameron School of Business, and as a mentor with the Cameron Executive Network, encouraged alumni and parents to get involved in ways that resonate with them and their students.
"The time and energy I invest in these roles is immensely rewarding and I cherish having a voice in the innovative strides the university continues to make," said Sousa. "As alumni and parents, you have the opportunity to engage in similar ways. Your support means the world, and we hope your students carry forward the love you have for UNCW as they embark on their journey."
Alumni can get involved by sharing their passion and Seahawk spirit by giving back as mentors, donors, volunteers and employers. Alumni are encouraged to support and contribute to the Seahawk alumni network by attending events, keeping the UNCWAA updated on life happenings and achievements and contributing to causes that mean the most to them.
"Every single action strengthens the Seahawk family," said LeRoy. Together we can shape the future of UNCW, and we look forward to partnering with you throughout this special journey."
Additionally, parents are encouraged to get involved by joining the Parents Council, a group of dedicated parents who are committed to enhancing the student experience at UNCW through philanthropic support.
Alumni and parents can learn more about continuing to make their impact on the UNCW student experience, UNCWAA events and the Parents Council at alumni.uncw.edu and giving.uncw.edu.
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