Why Give to ECSU?

Why Give to Elizabeth City State University?

ECSU is entering a new era. As the intellectual, cultural, and economic engine of northeastern North Carolina, we are driving progress across the state, the nation, and the world. To sustain this momentum, we call on our alumni, faculty, staff, students, corporations, foundations, and the community to invest in ECSU’s future. 

Guided by strategic priorities that address both present and emerging needs, ECSU is committed to becoming a leading regional university—one that fosters growth, inspires innovation, and empowers the communities we serve. 

These strategic priorities include:

UNRESTRICTED FUNDS -There are a variety of needs that arise throughout the year that require unrestricted funds to address. These dollars help us make strategic investments to meet the needs of the ever-changing landscape of higher education.

SCHOLARSHIP SUPPORT - As ECSU endeavors to grow its enrollment year over year, the University will need more scholarship dollars to help students close the gap so that they may continue their matriculation at ECSU. Your investment in our students will remove the financial barriers for students and encourage timely graduation.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE - ECSU has a vision to provide the academic inventory for the jobs of the future. ECSU is the first 4-year public institution in North Carolina to offer bachelor’s degrees in Aviation Science & Homeland Security. ECSU has created several undergraduate programs that include Homeland Security, Emergency Management, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS, or “drones”) and has an online Master of Education program.

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT & ENGAGEMENT - ECSU prepares students for success beyond graduation through enriching experiences in clubs, organizations, and musical ensembles. They engage with thought leaders, expand their global perspective with study abroad, and build career connections through internships and corporate partnerships. Our campus food pantry supports student well-being, ensuring every ECSU student thrives. Investing in student life creates lifelong experiences that shape their future.

CAMPUS ENHANCEMENT - ECSU’s goal is to create an environment on campus where students love where they live and learn and where faculty and staff are proud of where they teach and work. This means making strategic investments to enhance both the grounds and facilities around ECSU’s campus. 

VIKING ATHLETICS - The goal of ECSU Athletics is to build a program with state-of-the art facilities and resources that allows student-athletes to win both in the classroom and on the field.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & ECONOMIC IMPACT - ECSU has an economic impact of over $231 million in northeastern North Carolina, which positions it to be a powerful economic engine for the region. ECSU students, alumni, visitors and employees regularly contribute to the local and regional economies. And this is just the beginning.

ECSU is poised to lead. With impact and innovation, ECSU is driving progress in northeastern North Carolina and beyond. As we continue this journey, we invite you to join us in shaping the future—your contribution today will help propel ECSU forward.