Willie Deese, a proud North Carolina A&T State University graduate from Davidson, NC, has built an extraordinary career as a senior executive in the pharmaceutical industry, most notably retiring as global president of manufacturing at Merck & Co. He’s also served on multiple corporate boards and led the university’s Board of Trustees. Over the years, his generosity and deep commitment to A&T have left an undeniable mark—so much so that the university named its business school, ballroom, and the campus clock tower after him.

Deese has donated nearly $10 million to NC A&T and played a pivotal role as co-chair of its “The Power of Do” capital campaign, helping the university raise over $90 million and aiming for even more. His dedication goes far beyond financial gifts; he’s mentored students, opened doors for future Aggies, and inspired others to give back.

Through the ALL AGGIES, ALL IN campaign for athletics, Deese is working to raise funds that support student-athletes’ academic success and provide for the needs of all of A&T’s sports teams. This is the university’s first campus-wide campaign aimed at athletics, and with Deese’s leadership, it’s gaining strong momentum from donors and alumni. Because of Deese’s commitment, A&T’s athletes have more opportunities to excel both on the field and in the classroom, ensuring the university’s sports programs can thrive well into the future.