Student philanthropy organization, the 1889 Club, celebrated seniors at a toast on April 25. There were refreshments on the fifth floor of the Apodaca Science Building for students, faculty and Alumni.
The organization was founded to encourage young alumni involvement. Current WCU students can join the organization with an one-time donation of $18.89.
The Office of Engagement gifted senior members of the 1889 Club with tassels to wear at their graduation ceremonies. It was a celebratory evening, but students may be curious about the organization and what it does.
Western Carolina Alumni and current staff, Tenisia Higgins has been an important part of the 1889 Club’s post covid resurgence. Higgins started her position as the assistant director of Annual Giving for Student and Young Alumni Engagement just last year. She works with students and alumni of the last decade to encourage their involvement with Western Carolina. She explained the process of joining the 1889 Club and the benefits.
“There are opportunities throughout the year where you can donate. You can do that online; or you can do that in person. And then if you’re a senior you get invited to the toast, this toast, and then you also get a philanthropy cord you can wear at graduation,” Higgins said.
According to WCU’s website, “The Fund for WCU provides first-year access scholarships and supports impact grants and ongoing stewardship efforts.”
Higgins said that as the organization grows there will be more events for students to get involved with.
Savannah Fauber is a member of the 1889 Club who spoke at the event. Fauber graduated from WCU in December. She worked in the Office of Advancement and as a chatty cat during her time at WCU.
“I’m really passionate about service and giving back to everybody in the area so I decided to join,” Fauber said.
Cora Haste interviewing alumni Savannah Fauber. Photo by Spencer Lee. 
Chancellor Kelli R. Brown talking with students. Photo by Spencer Lee. 
Chancellor Kelli R. Brown toasts the seniors of 1889 club. Photo by Spencer Lee. 
Assistant vice chancellor for Engagement James Hogan singing the alma mater. Photo by Spencer Lee. 
All attendees gathered around singing the alma mater, led by James Hogan. Photo by Spencer Lee. 
Seniors posing and taking photos with WCU mascot Paws. Photo by Spencer Lee.
Chancellor Kelli R. Brown gave a speech toasting the future WCU Alumni and thanking them for their contributions and commitment to WCU.
“By choosing to give back to your alma mater before you even graduate you are setting an example for future generations of catamounts to follow. You are showing that you truly care about WCU and its mission,” said Brown.
The evening wrapped up with a toast to the seniors and a performance of the alma mater. The song was led by alumni and staff, James Hogan, assistant vice chancellor for Engagement in the Division of Advancement.
“You’re a part of the family now, and that’s really important to me. It’s really important that you’re investing back in this place, that you’ve given so much in your studies,” Hogan said, “We’re so proud of you and we’re so excited to have you as part of this great purple and gold family.”
Fauber thinks the 1889 Club is a great resource for networking.
“I think the more it grows, and the more people become a part of it, I definitely think it will help people with networking when they graduate and get in the job field,” Fauber said.
To learn more about the 1889 Club and how to join visit their webpage.
