Savannah State Alumni Association Honors Distinguished Graduates
The alumni group celebrated long-standing members and academic achievements during an annual banquet held in Savannah.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Awards
The Savannah State University National Alumni Association recently hosted its annual banquet at the campus Student Union Building. The event honored several notable alumni for their ongoing contributions to the university and their respective professional communities.
Why it matters
The ceremony serves as a vital platform for recognizing the lasting impact of Savannah State University graduates. It highlights the achievements of individuals who have dedicated their careers to both their academic institutions and their local communities.
Patricia West, who graduated in 1976 and served as an Assistant Professor until 2022, was named Alumnus of the Year. The event also highlighted the accomplishments of the Cynthia Jackson Formey family, who have collectively achieved 26 bachelor's degrees.
The players
Patricia West
She is the recipient of the Alumnus of the Year award and a former Assistant Professor of English at the university.
Harold Washington
He serves as the President of the Savannah State University National Alumni Association.
Marilyn Taylor
She was one of the individuals recognized during the association's annual awards ceremony.
Beauty Baldwin
She is a recipient of the Presidential Medallion of Excellence Award.
The details
Held during the university's Homecoming weekend, the banquet showcased the achievements of various alumni, including Dr. Marilyn Taylor and Ken Albright, Sr. Association President Harold Washington also presented Presidential Medallion of Excellence Awards to three honorees for their distinguished service.
Timeline
Patricia West graduated from Savannah State University in 1976.
Patricia West earned a Master's degree in 1996.
Patricia West attained doctoral candidacy status in 2016.
Patricia West retired from her assistant professor role in 2022.
The annual banquet occurred on October 16, 2026.
Culture Shift
The banquet follows the traditional structure of awards ceremonies held during the university's annual Homecoming weekend. This event maintains long-standing institutional traditions that bridge generational gaps between alumni, current students, and the local Savannah community.
The event highlights the ongoing professional and academic success stories stemming from the university's graduate pool. For the Savannah community, these recognitions reinforce the local university's role as a primary driver of regional leadership and professional development.
The takeaway
Alumni associations play a crucial role in maintaining professional networks long after graduation. Staying engaged with such organizations can provide meaningful opportunities for mentorship and long-term career support.
Further reading
Learn more about local recognitions on our Savannah Awards page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Savannah Tribune.
