Shaw University

Martel A. Perry

Contact:
LaChauna Sumpter
Public Relations
For Immediate Release

Shaw University & Coca-Cola Classically ‘Refresh the Student Experience’

Raleigh, NC -- (September 7, 2004) -- Shaw University’s relationship with Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated dates over 20 years, and last year the University renewed a contract that continues through 2007. August marked the first time that Shaw students, faculty, and staff will experience the campus-wide benefits of a nearly $400,000 partnership. Shaw and Coke committed to increase the student scholarship fund and to help students to participate in the upcoming Willie E. Gary Football Classic festivities in Jacksonville, Fl.

Shaw and Coke’s semi-formal ‘Classic’ event is the Willie E. Gary Football Classic Scholarship Banquet to be held this evening, at 7 p.m., on the third floor of Estey Hall. Mr. Martel Perry, executive vice president of the University played a key role in securing this new height of collaboration. He states, “Although the Classic has been in operation for what will soon be its third year, this is the first Willie E. Gary [Classic] banquet that we have hosted at Shaw…with Coke’s participation, we are looking to make this an annual event…we’re also looking to increase this type of participation with other Raleigh businesses and entities.” 

One of the most significant events at the Classic is the College and Recruitment Fair. Last year 5000 high school students attended with transcripts in tow, Shaw awarded five scholarships. Perry explains the dynamic that Coke adds, “…now with Coke’s participation we can grant 10 additional scholarships…It’s a wonderful opportunity to increase enrollment and it’s a wonderful experience for our students…” says Perry. 

Coke purchased 200 tickets for students to attend the Classic, and it will sponsor four charter buses to transport students to Jacksonville. In addition, Coke donates an annual $10,000 in scholarships. Including the cost of the banquet, Coke’s contributions to Shaw total over $30,000.

The collaboration also includes providing on-campus vending equipment, soft drinks, dining equipment, beverage commission to Shaw, game scoreboard provisions, football marketing, product donations, PowerADE Kits and banner support. 

Shaw University, founded in 1865, is the oldest historically Black institution in the South. Since 2003, the University has been under the leadership of Dr. Clarence G. Newsome. President Newsome’s leadership pursues the theme: “Strides to Excellence: Only the Best!” 

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