Cheyney University Alumni Chapter

Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, founded on February 25, 1837, is the nation's first historically African-American institution of higher learning. The primary mission of the institution at that time was to prepare youth of African ancestry for skilled trades and teaching. It was the first college in the United States to receive official state certification as an institution of higher academic education for African-Americans. The founding of Cheyney was made possible by Richard Humphreys, a Philadelphia Quaker philanthropist. The college began its existence in Philadelphia as the Institute for Colored Youth, located at 915 Bainbridge Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Through the pioneering leadership of principals, presidents, and faculty, the Institute successfully prospered and provided a free classical education for qualified colored youth in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, an African American State Historical Marker commemorates this site. In 1902, the school was moved to George Cheyney's farm, and now sits on 275 acres in suburban Philadelphia, approximately 30 minutes southwest of the city. In 1913, the name was changed to Cheyney Training School for Teachers; in 1921 to the Normal School at Cheyney; in 1951 to Cheyney State Teachers College; and in 1959, to Cheyney State College. In 1983, Cheyney joined the State System of Higher Education (SSHE) as Cheyney University of Pennsylvania. Cheyney has now emerged as a fully integrated, progressive university of superior quality. Humphrey’s dream was to establish a school of higher learning for African-American students, 'in order to prepare, fit and qualify to act as teachers…' Cheyney University graduates, including many proud Cheyney alumni, continue to become teachers, while also entering fields such as journalism, medicine, business, science, communications, and government. Since its conception, Cheyney University has continued to educate American and international students far beyond Humphrey’s vision. Today, Cheyney students represent a variety of races, cultures, and nationalities. Additionally, the Cheyney University Jersey Alumni Association fosters a strong community among alumni in the Greater South Jersey area.

The mission of the Greater South Jersey Cheyney Alumni Chapter is to serve as a vital resource for Cheyney University and the students currently enrolled there. The GSJ Cheyney Alumni Chapter is dedicated to continuing the legacy of service and volunteerism through meaningful public service initiatives, which include community involvement and educational programs that address the needs of both the university and its students. Additionally, this Cheyney University Jersey alumni association aims to provide essential resources for enhancing the experience of students at Cheyney University, recruit new students, and organize activities designed to raise funds to support students' needs.

Greater South Jersey Cheyney University Alumni 

ChapterHomecoming Impact & Achievement ReportThe 

Greater South Jersey Cheyney University Alumni Chapter has demonstrated exceptional leadership, philanthropy, and community impact, culminating in its recognition as the 2025 Chapter of the Year and the 2026 Most Notable Chapter of the Year. Driven by a dedicated roster of 62 current financial members and guided by a two-time Chapter President of the Year, the chapter has significantly advanced its mission of supporting Cheyney University students and preserving institutional excellence.Financial Stewardship & Student SupportThrough strategic mobilization and alumni engagement, the chapter successfully executed major fundraising initiatives to alleviate the financial burdens of attending students.

• Total Funds Raised: Over $18,500
• Financial Assistance Dispersed: Over $16,500 directly awarded to students to support tuition, fees, and educational expenses.

Campus Vitality & Community InitiativesThe chapter's advocacy extends beyond financial aid, directly addressing student welfare and cultural literacy on campus.

• Campus Pantry Donations: Over $1,100 worth of essential goods and supplies contributed to combat student food insecurity.
• Literary Advocacy: Donated 8 banned Black books to seed and enrich the personal library of a current Cheyney University student, reinforcing a commitment to diverse historical narratives and intellectual empowerment.

Institutional Honors & Leadership ExcellenceThe chapter’s consistent performance has earned top-tier honors from the national alumni network over consecutive years.

• 2025 Chapter of the Year
• 2026 Most Notable Chapter of the Year
• Two-Time Chapter President of the Year (awarded to leadership for exemplary governance and vision)

This collective success underscores the Greater South Jersey Chapter's enduring commitment to the legacy of Cheyney University, proving that strategic alumni action creates measurable, life-changing outcomes for the campus community.