Gen. Henry Hugh Shelton, former Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff and an alumnus of N.C. State University, has been honored with the establishment of an endowment in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. The General Henry Hugh Shelton Leadership Endowment was established to create national-level, value-based opportunities in youth development, ROTC and executive training programs, and scholarships.

A February gala in Fayetteville, sponsored by a lead donation of $20,000 from Sprint, served as kick-off event for the endowment. More than 550 people attended the gala, hosted by the College and the Fayetteville Area Shelton Leadership Endowment Committee, chaired by Terry Hutchens and Peter Stewart.

In Shelton’s honor, a military theme dominated the evening: Delta Company, Third Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division presented colors; the 82nd Airborne Division Band provided music; and Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry Company served as sentinel guard.

“A Journey to Remember,” the evening’s commemoration of Shelton’s life and accomplishments in serving his country, included leaders from local, state and national levels. Special remarks were presented by U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge, U.S. Rep. Mike McIntyre and state Sen. Tony Rand; a proclamation of Gen. H. Hugh Shelton Appreciation Day was sent by Gov. Mike Easley; and Fayetteville Mayor Marshall Pitts Jr. gave Shelton the key to the city. Dr. Stephen Jones, vice chancellor for extension and engagement, represented N.C. State in the program.

“An American Success Story,” a collection of Shelton memorabilia was also on display. With Gen. Hugh and Mrs. Carolyn Shelton were his mother, Sarah Shelton; sister, Sarah Balkcum; and his brothers, Ben and David Shelton.

The gala raised more than $120,000 in support of the endowment.

—Terri Leith