NCCU merges athletic boosters under one Eagle Club

In anticipation of its NCAA Division I reclassification, N.C. Central University has brought its more than half-dozen athletic booster clubs under one umbrella: the Eagle Club.

“We are thrilled about the Eagle Club and the promise it provides our program,” said Ingrid Wicker-McCree, director of athletics. “Our supporters are a tremendous asset, allowing our program to offer scholarships to the most talented student-athletes and provide them and our constituents with excellent athletic experiences.”

As part of Division I reclassification, schools undergo a review by the NCAA, which encouraged the Eagles to provide more structure to their fund-raising model. This includes a united booster club.

A 20-member committee with representatives from the university, athletics department and individual booster clubs led the effort to unify the clubs through the Eagle Club. It is named for the university’s mascot and a legacy booster organization.

“The committee representatives have devoted countless hours to the Eagle Club while keeping the best interests of our student-athletes and the university in mind,” said John Smith, executive director of the legacy Eagle Club. “I support the merger of NCCU booster clubs. It presents a united front to potential members and provides focus for our organization.”