Wayne State University hosted its 41st annual Charter Night on November 17 to recognize new and upgraded members to the Anthony Wayne Society, the university's premier donor recognition group. More than 300 alumni and friends gathered at the event to celebrate the generosity of individuals, corporations and foundations to support students, faculty and programs across the university.

David Ripple, vice president for Development and Alumni Affairs and president of the Wayne State University Foundation, welcomed guests by expressing his gratitude to the Anthony Wayne Society members for their commitment as loyal investors in Wayne State. "Wayne State is moving forward in ways that reflect energy and enthusiasm," Ripple said. "As an anchor institution, the university has a vital role to play in the renewal of Detroit, and as supporters, you help Wayne State and our city to grow stronger."

Wayne State students played an important role in the evening's activities, serving as program hosts, ambassadors and providing musical entertainment. Irvin D. Reid Honors College student Megha Trivedi and Edmund Alyn Jones, a Hilberry Theatre performer and MFA student in the College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts, served as emcees throughout the evening. Scholarship recipient and College of Education junior, Terrel White spoke at the event. "Coming from a working class family, it was expected that my three siblings and I would attend college only if we could earn scholarships," he said. "The support I have received at Wayne State through the generosity of alumni and friends has provided me with so many opportunities, and I wouldn't trade these experiences for any other."

This year's honorees gave to areas across the university, including student scholarships, obstetrics and gynecology research, faculty lectures, a library resource fund, and Parkinson's research. Ronald Raven, an alumnus and honoree, was a featured speaker during the main program. He talked about his inspiration for giving back to Wayne State in recognition of the important role the university played in his life. He described the day he first stepped onto Wayne State's campus as the best in his life. About the scholarship Raven established, he said, "I wanted to help other students to have a best day of their lives just like the one I had."

Third year medical student and scholarship recipient Jasmine Gaines closed the evening with remarks about the Wayne State University School of Medicine. "My experience at Wayne State has exceeded my expectations," Gaines said. "I am excited about my future practicing family medicine as a physician-scientist." She then thanked the Anthony Wayne Society members for helping to make dreams become a reality for many students like her.

The Anthony Wayne Society was established in 1971 to recognize Wayne State's most generous supporters. Its first members were the university's closest friends and family, and that tradition has continued for the past 41 years. The Anthony Wayne Society is proud to have on its roster of tribute the names of 5,575 members who have contributed between $10,000 and $25 million to the university.