The newest residence hall at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte was renamed Wilson Hall in honor of Dontá L. Wilson, a Charlotte alumnus who serves as the vice chair on the Board of Trustees. Wilson Hall is Charlotte’s first residence hall named after an African American. The freshman-only, traditional-style residence hall boasts six floors and 676 beds, making it the highest-capacity dorm on Charlotte’s campus.
During the dedication ceremony in April, Chancellor Sharon L. Gaber also announced the new Wilson Believe Fund, a scholarship that will target first-generation students pursuing degrees in education and business.
“Thanks to a generous gift, the university is establishing the Wilson Believe Fund, an endowed scholarship fund that will provide scholarships for first-generation college students majoring in business and education at Charlotte,” said Gaber. “This fund has the potential to change the trajectory of the lives of generations of Charlotte students, their families and their communities. What’s more, in recognition of Dontá’s extraordinary generosity and service to his alma mater, I am pleased to announce that our newest residence hall will be named Dontá L. Wilson Hall.”
Wilson hopes that this building and the new scholarship will help support and alleviate anxiety for first-generation students and their families as they navigate the difficulties of college.
“Navigating the funding processes and living arrangements can be overwhelming and all-consuming,” said Wilson. “When students can focus more on enjoying the experience and performing to the best of their abilities, the benefits extend far beyond the students and our 49er community; it also contributes to the success of their families, the city of Charlotte and the global community.”
Wilson, chief consumer and Small Business Banking officer for Truist Financial Corporation and a member of the company’s operating council was named Digital Banker of the Year by American Banker Magazine.
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Sharon Gaber, UNCC Chancellor, and Dontá L. Wilson
Photo credit: Amy Hart
July