The Dereck Whittenburg Foundation – A Legacy of Leadership, Generosity & Game-Changing Impact
Raleigh, NC – For more than four decades, Dereck Whittenburg has carried the spirit of a champion — first as an NC State basketball legend, and now as a visionary philanthropist. This year, he and his wife Jacqueline Whittenburg will be honored at the 2nd Annual HBCU Triumph Gala, a celebration of Legacy, Pride, and Philanthropy. Through The Dereck Whittenburg Foundation, the couple has transformed their shared commitment to education into a mission that uplifts college students, advances equity, and embodies the enduring legacy of HBCUs and their transformative power in shaping the next generation of leaders.
Empowering Students, One Scholarship at a Time
Founded in 2015 by Dereck and Jacqueline Whittenburg, the foundation provides need-based financial support to junior and senior college students who are often at risk of dropping out due to financial hardship. What began as a single $10,000 check has grown into a movement that has awarded more than 200 scholarships and surpassed $1 million in donations.
The organization’s mission extends beyond funding — it’s about creating opportunities, fostering community, and partnership. “We don’t just write checks,” Whittenburg has said. “We invest in people, in potential, and in the belief that every student deserves to finish strong.”
From the Court to the Classroom
Whittenburg’s foundation work is deeply tied to his legacy. Known for the unforgettable 1983 NCAA championship moment — when his “air ball” led to Lorenzo Charles’ game-winning dunk and Jimmy Valvano’s historic celebration — Whittenburg has repurposed that same energy toward something even greater. Today, the ring that once symbolized victory now represents hope, perseverance, and possibility for students striving to complete their education.
Championing Change Through Community Events
The foundation’s largest fundraiser, the Annual Celebrity Golf Invitational, brings together athletes, business leaders, and philanthropists from across the country. The event, paired with a gala reception and auction, fuels scholarship programs and community partnerships — such as those with CarolinaEast and Craven Community College, which received grants to support nursing education and workforce development.
Through these efforts, the Whittenburgs have built a network that connects passion with purpose, ensuring every dollar raised contributes directly to student success.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Philanthropy and Education
As The Dereck Whittenburg Foundation celebrates its 10th anniversary, its leaders remain committed to expanding outreach across North Carolina and beyond. In 2023 alone, $40,000 in scholarships were distributed to four universities, affirming the foundation’s role as a trusted champion for higher education equity.
“Our mission will always be about more than money,” Whittenburg shared. “It’s about building bridges — between dreams and opportunity.”
Conclusion
As honorees of the 2nd Annual HBCU Triumph Gala, Dereck and Jacqueline Whittenburg stand as shining examples of how passion, purpose, and philanthropy can change lives. From championship glory to community impact, their leadership through The Dereck Whittenburg Foundation reflects the very spirit of the gala — celebrating those who advance educational opportunity and the proud heritage of HBCUs nationwide. Their legacy continues to inspire a movement of generosity, empowerment, and hope for generations to come.
Event Details
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- Visit: https://www.shawu.edu/hbcutriumph2025
- Purchase tickets or ads: www.shawu.edu/hbcutriumphgalapay
- Contact: Dianne Pledger at [email protected]