Extended Campus to Host Inaugural Online Learner Pinning Ceremony

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Oct. 26 2026) — As North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University celebrates its centennial Greatest Homecoming on Earth, the university’s Extended Campus will make history with its inaugural Online Learner Pinning Ceremony on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.

The virtual celebration will recognize the dedication, perseverance and academic aspirations of N.C. A&T’s online learners while reinforcing a powerful message: Aggie Pride knows no distance, and Aggie Pride is worldwide.

The ceremony will provide online learners with a unique opportunity to participate in the spirit of homecoming, regardless of their geographic location, ensuring that students pursuing their education virtually are equally recognized and celebrated as members of the Aggie family.

“Being an Aggie is not defined by where you sit in a classroom, but by the pride, perseverance, and purpose you bring to your educational journey,” said Regina Williams Davis, Ph.D., assistant vice provost for Online and Extended Learning. “Our online learners are an essential part of the fabric of North Carolina A&T State University, and they deserve to experience the same traditions, recognition, and sense of belonging as every other Aggie.”

For many online learners, geographic distance, professional obligations and family responsibilities may limit opportunities to participate in traditional campus activities. This ceremony seeks to bridge that gap by creating an accessible and meaningful experience that celebrates their connection to the university.

“Hosting our inaugural pinning ceremony during the centennial Greatest Homecoming on Earth is especially meaningful because, as we celebrate 100 years of Aggie tradition, we are also creating new traditions that embrace the future of education,” said Davis. “This ceremony is more than the presentation of a pin; it is a symbol of connection, community, and our unwavering commitment to ensuring that every online learner knows they belong. No matter where they live, work, or learn, they are part of the Aggie family.”

As online education continues to expand opportunities for working professionals, adult learners, parents and students balancing multiple responsibilities, the Extended Campus is establishing new traditions that foster connection, belonging and institutional pride.

Ferreli McGilvary, an N.C. A&T alumnus and assistant vice president for Student Life: Residential Initiatives and Campus Community at Prairie View A&M University, will deliver the keynote address. His participation underscores the lasting impact of an Aggie education and the importance of remaining connected to the university community beyond graduation.

The program will also feature an online MBA student Gabrielle J. Williams, who will share a personal reflection on the experience of pursuing higher education while navigating professional, personal and academic responsibilities.

“As we celebrate 100 years of Homecoming, we are also looking ahead to the future of the Aggie experience,” said Andrew P. Daire, provost and executive vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. “Online education expands access to North Carolina A&T while ensuring that, no matter where our students learn, they feel connected to our community, our traditions and the Aggie Pride that unites us.”

In preparation for the event, commemorative pins have been mailed to participating students. During the virtual ceremony, students will be invited to have a family member, friend or loved one place the pin on them, symbolizing not only their connection to A&T but also the support systems that contribute to their educational success. Students celebrating independently will have the opportunity to pin themselves.

The ceremony will also include a moment of reflection and an Online Aggie Pledge, during which students will affirm their commitment to academic excellence, perseverance, leadership and Aggie Pride.

The celebration will conclude with a collective display of Aggie Pride, bringing online learners together in a shared moment of recognition and belonging.