FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Fayetteville State University (FSU) honored the legacy of John and Louise Wilson by naming their family the 2026-27 Family of the Year during the university’s Fall Convocation on September 18. A significant moment unfolded on stage as over 20 family members gathered to accept the recognition, illustrating the close-knit connection the Wilsons have with the institution.
The Wilson family’s dedication to FSU stems from the legacy of two graduates, and their commitment has since flourished into a meaningful initiative that supports future generations of students. Central to this effort is the John and Louise Wilson Endowed Scholarship, established following the loss of both parents and one of their sons within a span of three years. Their ten children and grandchildren sought a way to honor their parents’ memory while aiding fellow Broncos in their educational pursuits.
Community Engagement through Tradition
Belinda Pugh, a 1991 FSU alumna and granddaughter of the Wilsons, expressed that contributing to the university was a natural way to commemorate her grandparents. “It was actually an idea that I thought about to give back to the students of FSU as well and to remember them,” she reflected.
Since 2013, the Wilson family has organized an annual fish fry in Windsor, North Carolina, to fund the scholarship. Family members contribute food and supplies, and the event has become a cherished tradition, even though it was paused for two years during the COVID-19 pandemic. The fish fry’s popularity has surged, growing from around 300 tickets sold in its inception to approximately 800 this year. Community members have increasingly shown support, sometimes donating even without purchasing meals.
The funds raised from this event have seen substantial growth, with early efforts bringing in about $5,000 to $6,000, while last year’s total approached nearly $20,000, according to Pugh.
Enduring Bonds with FSU
Chancellor Darrell T. Allison emphasized the Wilson family’s lasting connection to FSU, stating that their involvement transcends graduation and financial contributions. “Their relationship with Fayetteville State University is not limited to past attendance nor financial giving alone,” he noted during the convocation. “Rather, it is an active and enduring partnership rooted in service, pride, and a deep commitment to preserving and advancing the university’s legacy.”
Two of the Wilsons’ daughters are also FSU graduates. Belinda Pugh earned her degree in business administration in 1991 and later obtained a master’s degree from Bowie State University. She has since retired from federal service and contributes to the Anne Arundel Alumni Chapter as treasurer. Her sister, Patricia Wilson Greene, graduated in 1976 with a degree in education and enjoyed a long career as an educator before becoming an entrepreneur.
A Legacy of Generational Support
Wesley Fountain, FSU’s vice chancellor of External Affairs and University Advancement, highlighted the Wilson family’s story as an example of how alumni can significantly impact the university’s future. “The Wilson family shows how a connection to Fayetteville State can grow across generations,” he stated. “They took something deeply personal to their family and turned it into an investment in students.”
Pugh expressed gratitude for the Family of the Year award, acknowledging the importance of their contributions to FSU. “It’s an honor and privilege to have received the Family of the Year Award,” she said. “We’re really appreciative of Fayetteville State University for honoring us with the Family of the Year and seeing our efforts actually contribute back to the school.”
The Family of the Year recognition, awarded for nearly four decades, celebrates families with multiple FSU graduates who maintain an active role in the university through contributions and engagement. Nominations for the 2027-28 award will be accepted in the upcoming period by the Office of Alumni Relations.
Source: Fayetteville State University
