VALDOSTA – Valdosta State University renamed its executive dining room Friday, dedicating it to longtime university and community supporters, Sue and Stanley Cox.
Blake Pearce, the executive director of special projects and chief development officer of academic affairs, introduced the special occasion Friday morning. He announced over 55 individuals and businesses contributed to the Sue and Stanley Cox Endowment which also funds a new scholarship for students residing from the Valdosta – Lowndes County area.
“We’re really excited about the legacy that this is and this endowment is going to bring to Valdosta State,” Pearce said.
The Sue and Stanley Cox Executive Dining Room is located in the north end of the University Center. The newly decorated area displays a portrait of the couple and will be used to hold special meetings or conferences and events.
Known as the restaurant owners of 306 North and Covington’s Dining & Catering, the Coxes specialize in catered events and the overall dining experience.
President Richard Carvajal said, “VSU is so appreciative of the partnership we have shared with them over the years. They have been really part of the heartbeat of this institution.”
Stanley and Amy Cox, their daughter, accepted an honorary degree in honor of the late Sue Cox, who passed in 2022.
“I thank everyone here very much from the bottom of my heart,” Stanley Cox said to the full room of attendees. He shared memories with his late spouse and their history with the VSU.
“I can only imagine how proud and happy my mother would have been had she known of everything everyone has done for her,” Amy Cox said. “Education was extremely important to her.”
Over $100,000 has been donated to date for Sue Z. Cox Endowed Scholarship, according to Carvajal in a brief interview following the ceremony. He hopes the scholarship continues to grow and serve for generations of Lowndes County students.
“The Sue Cox scholarship will help generations of students from Lowndes County to be able to pursue their dreams and goals. In her life and of course for Stan, they’ve helped so many young people from Valdosta and Lowndes County over the years, this just ensures that legacy continues,” Carvajal said.