By Willie Roberson
Member, SSUNAA Washington DC Chapter
WASHINGTON — Seldom does an official or group from Savannah State University come to the Washington, DC area without stopping by to talk with Eloise Alston. The retired civil service employee is well known for her numerous financial and personal contributions to the university including establishing the SSU Penny Fund which continues to provide funds for current student enrollments and registrations to help them stay in school. These days at the age of 96, the great-great grandmother is still well known throughout the association for her unique skills in planning and organizing activities to raise money for the university.
Ms. Alston has always been a “very” active member of the Savannah State University National Alumni Association District of Columbia Chapter and the national association. She is a SSUNAA life member and has previously been recognized by the SSUNAA with its top award. She is also a past board member of the SSU Foundation.
A native of Crawfordville, Ga., she received her high school education in the Taliaferro County Public Schools before attending Georgia State College, now Savannah State University as a Home Economics major. She relocated to Washington after graduating from Georgia State College, now Savannah State University, and worked for the U.S. Bureau of Engraving, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of Navy, completing 38 years of government service. After her retirement, she continued to be active with several organizations and in the local community including working with her local church, the NAACP, the YWCA, and other community and civic associations and organizations. She also served as a White House volunteer.
