The Honorable Bob Etheridge: A Legacy of Service, Education & Rural Empowerment
RALEIGH, N.C. — Former U.S. Representative Bob Etheridge, a lifelong public servant and advocate for education and agriculture, will be honored at the 2nd HBCU Triumph Gala, hosted by Shaw University on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at The Westin Hotel–RDU in Raleigh.
Celebrating Leadership and Legacy
Etheridge’s career reflects a steadfast commitment to public service, education, and rural development. Appointed by the Biden Administration in 2021 as the State Executive Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) in North Carolina, Etheridge continues his long-standing efforts to support farmers and strengthen rural communities.
Before his most recent federal appointment, Etheridge represented North Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District for seven consecutive terms, from 1997 to 2011. During his time in Congress, he served for 12 years on the House Agriculture Committee, including two years as Chairman of the General Farm Commodity and Risk Management Subcommittee.
A former North Carolina State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Etheridge also served in the N.C. House of Representatives and as a Harnett County commissioner. His lifelong dedication to civic leadership has earned him honorary doctorates from several North Carolina universities, including Shaw University, Campbell University, and Fayetteville State University.
A Legacy Rooted in Service
Born in Sampson County, Etheridge is a proud North Carolinian who continues to reside in Lillington with his wife, Faye, a retired educator. Together, they share three children and nine grandchildren. When he’s not serving his community, Etheridge enjoys tending to his beef cattle farm and spending time outdoors.
About the 2025 HBCU Triumph Gala
The 2nd HBCU Triumph Gala is a black-tie fundraising event that celebrates leaders who advance educational equity, social action, and philanthropy. The gala also honors the enduring legacy of Shaw University, the first HBCU in North Carolina, while raising scholarship funds to empower the next generation of leaders.
This year’s gala date — December 6, 2025 — carries historical weight, marking the 160th anniversary of the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery. The event will recognize outstanding honorees with awards such as the HBCU Distinguished Alumni Award, HBCU Triumph Legacy Award, HBCU Triumph Community Activism Award, and the HBCU Triumph Magnum Opus Award.
Tickets, tables, and sponsorships on sale now!
For details, contact Dianne Pledger at [email protected]
Visit www.shawu.edu/hbcutriumph2025