Central State University celebrates 138th Charter Day Convocation

Central State University will honor its rich history and outstanding alumni at the 138th Charter Day Convocation at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 4, in the Paul Robeson Cultural and Performing Arts Center Auditorium. This annual celebration commemorates the University’s legacy of excellence and recognizes the remarkable achievements of its graduates. 

A highlight of this year’s convocation will be the induction of 10 distinguished alumni into the Central State University Alumni Achievement Hall of Fame. Each Centralian has made significant contributions to their fields, embodying the University’s mission of service and leadership. 

The 2025 honorees include: 

• Leontyne Price, ’48  Legendary opera singer and one of the most celebrated sopranos of the 20th century. 
• Dr. Jesse Willard Gardner, ’63 – Renowned educator and community leader. 
• Helen Bourn, ’65 – Influential advocate for social change. 
• Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, ’85 – Accomplished scholar and researcher and currently the 10th President of Central State University. 
• Jeffrey Elmore, ’86 – Respected leader in business and finance. 
• Dr. Frederick A. Aikens, ’88 – Distinguished academic and mentor and currently the Dean of the College of Business at Central State University. 
• Tyrone E. Nadir, ’92 – Advocate for innovation in education. 
• Angela L. Williams, ’92 – Trailblazer in corporate leadership. 
• Dr. Alvin Level, ’94 – Champion for student success and higher education and currently the Director of Bands for the Invincible Marching Marauders. 
• Latoya Turner, ’09 – Renowned educator, author, filmmaker and nonprofit leader. 

These individuals will share their journeys and reflections, inspiring current students and reaffirming Central State’s role in shaping leaders of the future. 

A tradition rooted in progress 

Charter Day commemorates the founding of the Combined Normal and Industrial Department at Wilberforce University in 1887, which later became Central State University. Originally marked by banquets and fundraising efforts, the observance evolved into an annual convocation, fostering a sense of unity among students, faculty, alumni, and supporters. 

Under the leadership of President Charles H. Wesley, Charter Day efforts helped establish key University initiatives, including: 

• The Student Loan and Scholarship Funds. 
• The Alumni Guest House in collaboration with the National Alumni Association. 
• The acquisition of a Steinway Concert Piano for Galloway Hall. 
• The creation of faculty research and student scholarship funds. 
• The installation of the chime clock in Galloway Tower, now known as Alumni Tower. 

Since 1989, the Alumni Achievement Hall of Fame has been an integral part of the celebration, recognizing the enduring impact of CSU graduates. 

The Charter Day Convocation highlights the Institutions’ ongoing commitment of education, innovation, and leadership. The event honors past accomplishments and sets the stage for future generations of Marauders to make their mark on the world. 

All students, faculty, alumni, and friends of the University are encouraged to attend this momentous occasion. For those unable to join us in person, the event will be livestreamed on our YouTube channel and Facebook.