By Deborah Walker

SALISBURY, N.C. — Livingstone College ushered in a new academic year with its Fall Convocation yesterday at 3:00 PM in Varick Auditorium, a tradition that honors student achievement and sets the tone for the year ahead. The program was filled with celebration, reflection, and announcements of exciting growth at the institution.

 The keynote address was delivered by Rev. Dr. Monty Witherspoon, pastor of Steele Creek A.M.E. Zion Church and a proud Livingstone College alumnus. Witherspoon earned his Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from Livingstone before completing a Master of Divinity from the Morehouse School of Religion at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta and a Doctor of Ministry from Drew University in New Jersey. In addition to his pastoral leadership, he serves on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Board of Education, where he advocates for equity and access to quality education. A dedicated servant-leader and member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, he continues to use both his ministry and public service to uplift students, families, and communities.

Encouraging students to see their education as a launching pad for impact, Witherspoon told the audience, “Today we are not only here to celebrate the matriculation of your journey at Livingstone College, but we are also here to celebrate future possibilities of how your scholarship and preparation will change the trajectory of this nation.”

Livingstone College President Dr. Anthony J. Davis also addressed the gathering, highlighting both growth and tradition. He announced that the college welcomed one of its largest incoming classes, 442 freshmen and new students, bringing total enrollment to 1,022. “A Blue Bear is rare, but it is real,” Davis said. “Since our inception in 1879, Livingstone College has developed incredible servant leaders. These men and women walked beneath thy maples and thy oaks and called with necessity their talents and gifts, thus enabling them to compete and continue in a global context with confidence. Today, you all join those ranks.”

Davis also pointed to Livingstone’s investment in student life infrastructure. Over $7 million has been secured to refurbish existing dorms as part of the broader “Miracle on Monroe Street” initiative, and recent donations total $25 million toward campus improvements, including residence hall renovations and updates to dining facilities. These investments underscore the college’s commitment to creating an enriching environment for its students, nearly 90 percent of whom live in college-owned housing.

A highlight of the ceremony was the installation of the newly elected Student Government Association officers. Jeremiah Brown, Jr. was sworn in as the 97th SGA President, alongside Vice President Darrah Simon. In his first official remarks, Brown pledged to lead with integrity and purpose, saying, “As the 97th Student Government Association President-Elect of Livingstone College, I remain committed to transparent, engaged, and result-oriented leadership rooted in advocacy, collaboration, and service.”

The convocation also celebrated the graduating Class of 2026 and officially welcomed the Freshman Class of 2029, symbolizing continuity and renewal. With its largest enrollment in recent years, significant capital improvements underway, and a renewed emphasis on student-centered leadership, Livingstone College continues to chart a path defined by excellence, growth, and community impact.