South of the James Alumni Chapter Thanks to the dedication of Anne Carson (Class of 1951), the South of the James Alumni Chapter was created in 1993. Anne had begun the groundwork in 1979 for reviving and setting up a new chapter, since an earlier chapter had folded, leaving no records to pass on to others. She worked diligently on this quest until 1984, when other priorities took over (personal involvement with other things and family health problems).

Later on, she was able to focus on making her dream a reality. Working with Tish Paschall from the Alumni Office, the first meeting for organizing a new chapter was held October 17, 1993 at the Best Western in Franklin.

Since its establishment in 1993, the Chapter’s primary activities include a scholarship for an incoming freshman; book awards to one junior at each of 11 high schools (public and private) in the South of the James area; an annual picnic; an annual reception for incoming and potential freshmen in tandem with an annual speaker from William and Mary; on-campus and chapter events; annual wine and cheese parties; and basketball/football outings. The Chapter enjoys having its meetings in various homes and special places in Smithfield, Franklin, and Suffolk.

For more information on how to get involved with the South of the James Alumni Chapter, contact the Alumni Engagement Office at 757.221.1171.