Donor Stories
Hyundai Donates $5 Million to Establish the Hyundai College of Education at Savannah State University
Hyundai made a transformative $5 million donation to Savannah State University (SSU) to name the Hyundai College of Education at Savannah State University. This historic partnership marks the largest corporate investment in the university’s 135-year history and represents a shared commitment to advancing education, workforce development and community impact across Georgia’s coastal region.
“The Hyundai College of Education represents more than just a name or sponsorship; it’s a proud milestone in our commitment to transformative community impact and expanding pathways for students from all backgrounds to excel,” said Erik Thomas, director, experiential and multicultural marketing, Hyundai Motor America. “Through this partnership, we are investing in educational excellence and creating opportunities that will empower future leaders and strengthen the fabric of coastal Georgia for generations to come.”
The Hyundai College of Education will serve as a center for training future educators and workforce professionals while expanding access to high-quality learning opportunities for students in Georgia and beyond. Through the partnership, Hyundai and Savannah State will expand access to cutting-edge learning opportunities, scholarships, and technology that support the evolving needs of 21st-century education.
“This gift represents more than a name — it’s a statement about what happens when higher education and industry work together to create opportunity,” said Dr. Jermaine Whirl, president, Savannah State University. “Hyundai’s investment in Savannah State will expand access to education, strengthen our teaching programs and fuel innovation that reaches far beyond our campus.”
Founded in 1890, Savannah State University is Georgia’s oldest historically Black public university. The new Hyundai College of Education builds on SSU’s legacy of academic excellence and community engagement while aligning with Hyundai’s vision for a sustainable, inclusive future.
The collaboration builds on Hyundai’s ongoing investment in the Coastal Georgia, home to Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), Hyundai Motor Group’s first dedicated electric vehicle mass-production plant in Bryan County, Georgia. The company has pledged to support education and workforce readiness programs that prepare local residents for high-demand careers.
“The Hyundai College of Education represents more than just a name or sponsorship; it’s a proud milestone in our commitment to transformative community impact and expanding pathways for students from all backgrounds to excel,” said Erik Thomas, director, experiential and multicultural marketing, Hyundai Motor America. “Through this partnership, we are investing in educational excellence and creating opportunities that will empower future leaders and strengthen the fabric of coastal Georgia for generations to come.”
The Hyundai College of Education will serve as a center for training future educators and workforce professionals while expanding access to high-quality learning opportunities for students in Georgia and beyond. Through the partnership, Hyundai and Savannah State will expand access to cutting-edge learning opportunities, scholarships, and technology that support the evolving needs of 21st-century education.
“This gift represents more than a name — it’s a statement about what happens when higher education and industry work together to create opportunity,” said Dr. Jermaine Whirl, president, Savannah State University. “Hyundai’s investment in Savannah State will expand access to education, strengthen our teaching programs and fuel innovation that reaches far beyond our campus.”
Founded in 1890, Savannah State University is Georgia’s oldest historically Black public university. The new Hyundai College of Education builds on SSU’s legacy of academic excellence and community engagement while aligning with Hyundai’s vision for a sustainable, inclusive future.
The collaboration builds on Hyundai’s ongoing investment in the Coastal Georgia, home to Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), Hyundai Motor Group’s first dedicated electric vehicle mass-production plant in Bryan County, Georgia. The company has pledged to support education and workforce readiness programs that prepare local residents for high-demand careers.
Savannah State University Announces $10,000 Gift Towards the Howard E. Alls Memorial Scholarship Fund
Attorney Willie J. Walker, Esq. has gifted $10,000 towards the Attorney Howard E. Alls Memorial Scholarship Fund. Established in 2000 in memory of Attorney Howard E. Alls, the fund provides up to $2,500 in financial assistance per year to promising freshmen who demonstrate academic excellence and a dedicated interest in the legal profession.
Attorney Alls and Mr. Walker were lifelong friends who grew up in the Carver Village neighborhood in Savannah.
“We attended elementary, middle and high school together, as well as SSU,” said Walker. “We both attended Mercer University law school, although our time there did not overlap. Attorney Alls had a deep and abiding love for SSU and he used his legal training to staunchly advocate for her.”
Walker added, “The purpose of the scholarship is to carry on the name of Attorney Alls by assisting current and future Savannah State students in their pursuit of academic excellence while relieving some of the financial burden. Hopefully, the scholarship will assist with identifying and providing aid to students who are interested in the study of law and careers that enable them to make our justice system fair and equitable to all. Attorney Alls was a fierce advocate whose training began in the classrooms of the SSU political science program under the tutelage of many terrific Savannah State professors and staff members.”
Savannah State University President Dr. Jermaine Whirl said, “We are very grateful for the generous gift of $10,000 from our friend and supporter Mr. Walker. His commitment to this scholarship helps to ensure that it will continue to provide invaluable support to our students who aspire to make a difference in the legal profession. It will not only honor Mr. Alls’ legacy, but also foster the development of future legal minds.”
To be eligible for the Howard E. Alls Memorial Scholarship, student candidates must be full-time entering freshmen who have earned a minimum high school GPA of 2.8. Candidates must qualify for financial assistance, adhere to all university policies, and remain in good standing. Interested students are encouraged to apply through Scholarship Universe or call the Financial Aid Office at 912.358.4162 (option 6).
Attorney Alls and Mr. Walker were lifelong friends who grew up in the Carver Village neighborhood in Savannah.
“We attended elementary, middle and high school together, as well as SSU,” said Walker. “We both attended Mercer University law school, although our time there did not overlap. Attorney Alls had a deep and abiding love for SSU and he used his legal training to staunchly advocate for her.”
Walker added, “The purpose of the scholarship is to carry on the name of Attorney Alls by assisting current and future Savannah State students in their pursuit of academic excellence while relieving some of the financial burden. Hopefully, the scholarship will assist with identifying and providing aid to students who are interested in the study of law and careers that enable them to make our justice system fair and equitable to all. Attorney Alls was a fierce advocate whose training began in the classrooms of the SSU political science program under the tutelage of many terrific Savannah State professors and staff members.”
Savannah State University President Dr. Jermaine Whirl said, “We are very grateful for the generous gift of $10,000 from our friend and supporter Mr. Walker. His commitment to this scholarship helps to ensure that it will continue to provide invaluable support to our students who aspire to make a difference in the legal profession. It will not only honor Mr. Alls’ legacy, but also foster the development of future legal minds.”
To be eligible for the Howard E. Alls Memorial Scholarship, student candidates must be full-time entering freshmen who have earned a minimum high school GPA of 2.8. Candidates must qualify for financial assistance, adhere to all university policies, and remain in good standing. Interested students are encouraged to apply through Scholarship Universe or call the Financial Aid Office at 912.358.4162 (option 6).
The Fred and Mattie Jackson Foundation Donates $100,000 to Support the Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Savannah State University
The Fred and Mattie Jackson Foundation has made a $100,000 donation to the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at SSU’s College of Business Administration. This contribution underscores the Foundation’s commitment to fostering innovation, education, and economic empowerment in Savannah and beyond.
Mr. Cyrus Jackson, a 1977 alumnus of Savannah State University and a long-time SSU donor, made the donation after being inspired by his recent visit to campus. At the time, he met with Dr. Shalonda Mullgrav, an associate professor of marketing and the executive director of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Mullgrav introduced Mr. Jackson to a group of students from Collegiate Entrepreneurs Networking Toward Success (C.E.N.T.S.), a student organization she advises. During their meeting, the students shared their entrepreneurial ambitions and experiences, leaving a strong impression on Mr. Jackson.
“I have worked with Dr. Mullgrav for many years. Her tireless commitment to uplifting the community through innovation and business development moved me profoundly,” said Mr. Jackson. “Spending time on campus and engaging with the brilliant, driven students reminded me of what my parents taught us about the power of education and the value of entrepreneurship. I am honored to support the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and its vital mission to create opportunities and inspire a brighter future.”
The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship was established in 2021 with a transformative $900,000 grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Commerce. Since its inception, the Center has served as a hub for aspiring entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators, providing resources, mentorship, and opportunities to empower the next generation of changemakers.
The grant, which expires in September 2025, laid the groundwork for the Center’s impactful programming. Recognizing the critical need for sustainable funding beyond the grant's timeline, Mr. Jackson’s renewed support will help ensure the Center’s continued success.
The $100,000 contribution will support the center’s initiatives, including student and community workshops, small business development resources and mentorship, and hands-on entrepreneurial training. The center also provides microgrants for entrepreneurial startups for students. Together, these efforts are shaping the leaders of tomorrow and fueling sustainable growth in Savannah’s business community.
“This gift from the Fred and Mattie Jackson Foundation will allow us to expand our reach and deepen our impact,” said Dr. Mullgrav. “We are committed to the mission of SSU by fostering innovation, encouraging ideation, and creating opportunities, and this support ensures our legacy can continue to flourish.”
The Fred and Mattie Jackson Foundation is dedicated to empowering communities through philanthropy, education, and economic development. With a mission to support transformative programs and initiatives, the Foundation invests in opportunities that create lasting change.
Mr. Cyrus Jackson, a 1977 alumnus of Savannah State University and a long-time SSU donor, made the donation after being inspired by his recent visit to campus. At the time, he met with Dr. Shalonda Mullgrav, an associate professor of marketing and the executive director of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Mullgrav introduced Mr. Jackson to a group of students from Collegiate Entrepreneurs Networking Toward Success (C.E.N.T.S.), a student organization she advises. During their meeting, the students shared their entrepreneurial ambitions and experiences, leaving a strong impression on Mr. Jackson.
“I have worked with Dr. Mullgrav for many years. Her tireless commitment to uplifting the community through innovation and business development moved me profoundly,” said Mr. Jackson. “Spending time on campus and engaging with the brilliant, driven students reminded me of what my parents taught us about the power of education and the value of entrepreneurship. I am honored to support the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and its vital mission to create opportunities and inspire a brighter future.”
The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship was established in 2021 with a transformative $900,000 grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Commerce. Since its inception, the Center has served as a hub for aspiring entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators, providing resources, mentorship, and opportunities to empower the next generation of changemakers.
The grant, which expires in September 2025, laid the groundwork for the Center’s impactful programming. Recognizing the critical need for sustainable funding beyond the grant's timeline, Mr. Jackson’s renewed support will help ensure the Center’s continued success.
The $100,000 contribution will support the center’s initiatives, including student and community workshops, small business development resources and mentorship, and hands-on entrepreneurial training. The center also provides microgrants for entrepreneurial startups for students. Together, these efforts are shaping the leaders of tomorrow and fueling sustainable growth in Savannah’s business community.
“This gift from the Fred and Mattie Jackson Foundation will allow us to expand our reach and deepen our impact,” said Dr. Mullgrav. “We are committed to the mission of SSU by fostering innovation, encouraging ideation, and creating opportunities, and this support ensures our legacy can continue to flourish.”
The Fred and Mattie Jackson Foundation is dedicated to empowering communities through philanthropy, education, and economic development. With a mission to support transformative programs and initiatives, the Foundation invests in opportunities that create lasting change.
Savannah State University Receives $100,000 Planned Gift to Support Dolphin Research
Savannah State University received a generous $100,000 donation from Ms. Robin Perrtree, a 2011 graduate of SSU’s master’s program in marine sciences, to support the SSU Dolphin Sciences Lab.
Led by Dr. Tara Cox, the SSU Dolphin Science Lab has been collecting data on Savannah’s local dolphin population since 2009. Using photo-identification—a non-invasive method of tracking individual dolphins over time—the lab has built a long-term dataset that allows researchers to explore complex questions about the local dolphins, including their social relationships, habitat ranges, travel patterns, and calving frequency.
Ms. Perrtree, who is the SSU Dolphin Science Lab Manager, was Dr. Cox’s first graduate student and discovered that Savannah’s dolphins are among the most persistent “beggars” in the world.
“My grandparents, Marjory and James Russell, highly valued education and supported my path after college as I started out as an unpaid intern conducting dolphin research and eventually came to SSU for my master’s degree,” said Perrtree. “I’m proud to have my grandmother’s estate help support the continued research and education that we conduct here in the SSU Dolphin Sciences Lab every day.”
“We are grateful to Ms. Perrtree for this very generous donation to our marine sciences program,” said SSU President Dr. Jermaine Whirl. “Her support will allow the program to continue its legacy of being the only one of its kind based in Southeast Georgia, with direct access to estuarine, coastal, and open-ocean research environments.”
Beyond its groundbreaking research, the SSU Dolphin Science Lab is committed to training a diverse scientific workforce. Students at all levels participate in lab and fieldwork, as well as present their research at regional, national, and international scientific conferences. This early exposure helps bridge the gap in minority representation within marine mammal science.
Planned giving provides a powerful opportunity to create a lasting legacy while supporting future generations of SSU students. This commitment will help sustain the ongoing research and educational efforts of the Dolphin Science Lab.
Moreover, Ms. Perrtree’s generous contribution ensures that this legacy endures—empowering the next generation of marine scientists to advance the biology and conservation of marine mammals, with a special focus on Savannah’s local dolphin population.
Led by Dr. Tara Cox, the SSU Dolphin Science Lab has been collecting data on Savannah’s local dolphin population since 2009. Using photo-identification—a non-invasive method of tracking individual dolphins over time—the lab has built a long-term dataset that allows researchers to explore complex questions about the local dolphins, including their social relationships, habitat ranges, travel patterns, and calving frequency.
Ms. Perrtree, who is the SSU Dolphin Science Lab Manager, was Dr. Cox’s first graduate student and discovered that Savannah’s dolphins are among the most persistent “beggars” in the world.
“My grandparents, Marjory and James Russell, highly valued education and supported my path after college as I started out as an unpaid intern conducting dolphin research and eventually came to SSU for my master’s degree,” said Perrtree. “I’m proud to have my grandmother’s estate help support the continued research and education that we conduct here in the SSU Dolphin Sciences Lab every day.”
“We are grateful to Ms. Perrtree for this very generous donation to our marine sciences program,” said SSU President Dr. Jermaine Whirl. “Her support will allow the program to continue its legacy of being the only one of its kind based in Southeast Georgia, with direct access to estuarine, coastal, and open-ocean research environments.”
Beyond its groundbreaking research, the SSU Dolphin Science Lab is committed to training a diverse scientific workforce. Students at all levels participate in lab and fieldwork, as well as present their research at regional, national, and international scientific conferences. This early exposure helps bridge the gap in minority representation within marine mammal science.
Planned giving provides a powerful opportunity to create a lasting legacy while supporting future generations of SSU students. This commitment will help sustain the ongoing research and educational efforts of the Dolphin Science Lab.
Moreover, Ms. Perrtree’s generous contribution ensures that this legacy endures—empowering the next generation of marine scientists to advance the biology and conservation of marine mammals, with a special focus on Savannah’s local dolphin population.
