Durham Bennett College Alumnae Celebrate Excellence at 34th Annual White Breakfast
DURHAM, NC – The Durham Chapter of the Bennett College National Alumnae Association hosted its 34th Annual White Breakfast, Awards of Excellence, and Scholarship Fundraiser on March 10, 2025, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Research Triangle Park. This longstanding tradition brought together alumnae, supporters, and community leaders to honor outstanding service and raise scholarship funds to support current and future students at Bennett College.
Founded in 1873, Bennett College is a small, private, historically Black liberal arts college for women, located in Greensboro, North Carolina. It is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and remains a pillar of higher education dedicated to preparing women of color for leadership and service. Under the leadership of Dr. Suzanne E. Walsh, J.D., President of Bennett College, the institution continues to emphasize academic excellence, sisterhood, and social responsibility.
The annual White Breakfast serves a dual purpose: it is both a celebration of accomplished individuals whose lives embody Bennett’s mission, and a fundraising effort to ensure that deserving students can access a Bennett education regardless of financial barriers. The room was filled with sisterhood, legacy, and purpose as the chapter recognized four community members whose work uplifts and empowers others.
This year’s honorees were recognized in four distinct categories for their leadership in education, religion, community service, and their commitment to Bennett College:
- Rev. Dr. Sarah Springs, pastor of St. Matthews AME Church in Saxapahaw, received the Distinguished Leadership in Community and Religious Service Award.
- Mr. Wendell Tabb, retired educator, theater director, producer, and current member of the Durham School Board, was honored for Distinguished Leadership in Community and Educational Service.
- Rev. Dr. Michael D. Page, pastor of Antioch Baptist Church and founder of Antioch Builds, Inc., was recognized for Distinguished Leadership in Community Service and as a Friend of Bennett.
- Mrs. Jocelyn Jones Williams ’70, a proud Bennett Belle and retired educator, received the Phenomenal Bennett College Alumnae of Durham award.
The event also served as a reunion and call to action for Triangle-area Bennett Belles, reinforcing the chapter’s commitment to supporting the next generation of women leaders through scholarships and mentorship.
As part of the program, guests enjoyed a formal breakfast and were inspired by reflections on legacy, service, and sisterhood. The program highlighted the impact of Bennett College’s alumnae—locally and nationally—and underscored the importance of investing in educational equity.
The Durham Bennett College Alumnae Chapter remains deeply committed to the college’s mission and encourages the community to support its ongoing scholarship efforts.
For more information on Bennett College or how to contribute to the scholarship fund, contact Chapter President Jacqueline B. Anderson.
Photos: Durham Bennett College Alumnae Chapter