Strong-Turner alumni chapter enjoys holiday potluck at Chancellor's residence
JONESBORO, Ark. — Members of the Arkansas State University Strong-Turner Alumni Chapter (S-TAC) enjoyed the organization’s annual holiday potluck dinner with ASU Chancellor Tim Hudson, his wife Dee Dee, and their children Gianna Grace and twins Daisy and Nathaniel, Thursday evening at the Chancellor’s Residence, 1503 East Nettleton.
“The Strong-Turner chapter does this every year and this is the first time we’ve ever had it at the Chancellor’s Residence,” said Ruby Henderson, a local realtor and hospitality chair for the chapter. “It’s a wonderful social event to bring African-American faculty members and staff together with the African-American community and celebrate the holidays.”
The Hudsons greeted guests and welcomed them into the festively decorated Chancellor’s residence. Each chapter member brought a food dish to share with the group. Henderson said that, following dinner, the group sang Christmas carols throughout the evening.
“Tim and I enjoy the festivities surrounding the holidays, especially those that include meeting new people and spending time with new friends,” said Dr. Deidra Hudson. "Our family has been embraced by this community."
The Strong-Turner Alumni Chapter of the ASU Alumni Association was formed in 1982 and named after Walter B. Strong and Frederick C. Turner, the first African-American graduates of Arkansas State University. The chapter was designed to meet the needs of African-American alumni.
Membership has steadily increased over the years as the scope and programs have also broadened. S-TAC is a division of the ASU Alumni Association.
The late Mr. Strong graduated with a degree in chemistry in 1959 and also received a masters degree in education from ASU in 1971. Lt. Col. Turner was a 1960 graduate in education who also received a masters degree in education from ASU in 1972. He is the father of 1986 ASU graduate Dr. Debbye Turner, who was Miss America 1990.
