In an overwhelming display of community support, Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) has been profoundly impacted by a generous donation of $10,550 in food vouchers from Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina (GIENC®). This donation, aimed at bolstering faculty, staff, and student resources during a challenging period, is a beacon of hope that has resonated deeply within SAU’s campus community.

“We deeply appreciate the generosity shown by Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina,” said SAU Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. “This donation will strengthen our faculty and staff and provide crucial resources for our students. It exemplifies the spirit of community and collaboration that defines SAU.”

GIENC has a rich history within the world of education and academia.  Several staff members to include the President & CEO are graduates of HBCUs.  As lifelong learners, GIENC is keenly aware of the value that institutions of higher learning offer to those who desire to change the quality of their lives.

“Since 1964 GIENC has served local communities through employment, education, and life enrichment opportunities.  At the core of GIENC’s values lies a simple concept; love and serve people where they are,” said Christopher Hash, President & CEO of GIENC. “Once GIENC learned of the hurtles that staff and employees were facing at SAU, we knew that we had the ability to step in the gap and aid through our GIENC Feeds Program.”

The donation comprised of $50 Food Lion gift cards were distributed to SAU’s 163 full-time faculty and staff to recognize and appreciate their dedication.

“At SAU, we strive to empower our students academically, socially, and spiritually,” said Dr. Janelle Jennings-Alexander, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “The support of our faculty and staff from GIENC reinforces our commitment to creating a nurturing learning environment for all students.”

In addition, the remaining 48 gift cards were designated for the university’s food pantry to provide essential resources for students facing food insecurity.

“These gift cards will provide much-needed assistance to our students who rely on the food pantry for essential items,” said Ms. Joyce Bannerman, Director of Testing and International Programs, who oversees SAU’s food pantry. “GIENC’s generosity will help alleviate the challenges faced by our students, ensuring they can focus on their academic success.”

Continuing its legacy of service and community support, GIENC reaffirmed its commitment to assisting SAU and other regional institutions. By extending a helping hand to SAU in its time of need, GIENC underscores the importance of collaboration and empathy in overcoming challenges collectively.

“Eastern North Carolina is our home, so we’re grateful to be able to assist a community partner in a time of urgent need. It’s important for SAU to continue its mission of sustaining a learning community in which students can prepare academically, socially, and spiritually for leadership in a complex, diverse, and rapidly expanding world,” Hash said. “GIENC will continue transforming lives through opportunities by investing in education, employment, and life enrichment initiatives in our communities.”

About Saint Augustine’s University Founded in 1867 by the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, the mission of Saint Augustine’s University is to sustain a learning community in which students can prepare academically, socially and spiritually for leadership in a complex, diverse and rapidly changing world.

About Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina, Inc. (GIENC®) transforms lives through opportunities. For 60 years, GIENC has empowered individuals, families and communities through employment, education, and life enrichment opportunities. A leader in innovative solutions, GIENC serves 51 counties and operates 42 employment program centers.  Since 2022, GIENC has distributed over $300K in food vouchers to combat food insecurity. To donate or learn more about GIENC, visit www.gienc.org.