SALISBURY, N.C. (February 10, 2026) On February 5, 2026, Livingstone College gathered in Varick Auditorium to celebrate its 147th Founder’s Day with the theme: “The Morning of An Audacious Idea “. The annual Convocation honored two distinguished recipients with Doctorates of Humane Letters: Salisbury philanthropist, Fred Stanback, Jr., and Heather Patrek, whose extraordinary act of generosity helped save the life of Livingstone College President, Dr. Anthony J. Davis. The 2026 celebration carried special meaning for the Livingstone College community. During the 2025 Spring Commencement ceremony, Dr. Davis publicly shared that he had been diagnosed with end-stage renal failure, a condition that often requires a transplant for long-term survival. In response, Livingstone College launched the “Be My Match” campaign to raise awareness and seek a living kidney donor.

Heather Patrek answered that call.

Originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, Patrek later moved to Belmont, North Carolina, and she learned of Dr. Davis’ condition after a friend shared a Black Enterprise publication detailing his diagnosis and leadership. After researching his impact on the Salisbury community and Livingstone College, she felt compelled to be tested as a potential donor. She was confirmed as a match. On November 13, 2025, Dr. Davis underwent a successful transplant procedure at Atrium Health alongside Patrek, whom he had not met prior to the surgery. Her selfless decision not only transformed his life but also deeply moved the Livingstone College community. In honoring Patrek with a Doctorate of Humane Letters, the College recognized a powerful example of compassion, courage, and service.

The Convocation also celebrated Fred Stanback, Jr., a lifelong Salisbury resident and a graduate of Salisbury (Boyden) High School. A United States Air Force veteran, Stanback returned to his hometown to work with his family business, Stanback Company, and has since become one of the region’s most influential civic and philanthropic leaders. Stanback is widely respected for his dedication to environmental conservation and community development. He has supported numerous preservation initiatives across North Carolina, including Three Rivers Land Trust, and played an instrumental part in creating Bell Tower Green, Stanback Educational Forest, Eagle Point Nature Reserve, and the Catawba College Center for the Environment. Alongside his friend Julian Robertson, Jr., he made a lead gift toward the Rowan Helping Ministries Robertson-Stanback facility in 2014. Stanback also supported educational and community-based initiatives such as the Food for Thought backpack program.

Recognized by the Rowan County Chamber of Commerce as the “Citizen of the Century”, his dedication and philanthropy have strengthened Salisbury and created opportunities for community organizations to flourish.

This year’s Founder’s Day Convocation reflected the spirit that Livingstone College was founded upon a bold vision, sacrificial service, and unwavering commitment to community. From lifesaving generosity to transformative philanthropy, the honorees embodied the audacious idea that continues to guide the College forward.