North Carolina Wesleyan University is proud to recognize the extraordinary generosity and vision of Judith “Judi” Vilagos Parsons ’75, whose commitment to education and service continues to create life-changing opportunities for students.
In 2024, Judi established the Howard Parsons Biomedical Endowed Scholarship in memory of her late husband, Howard T. Parsons ’74, honoring the role Wesleyan played in shaping their lives, careers, and shared commitment to helping others. Through that gift, students pursuing degrees in biomedical science and related fields have gained access to resources that support their academic success and professional aspirations.
Double the Scholarships
Now, just two years later, Judi has expanded her legacy of philanthropy by establishing both the Vilagos Social Services Annual Scholarship and the Vilagos Social Services Endowed Scholarship. While her previous scholarship honored Howard’s memory, these new scholarships celebrate Judi’s own journey and the path she began when she arrived at Wesleyan as a student.
As a member of the Class of 1975, Judi understands firsthand the transformative power of education. Her latest gifts are designed to support students pursuing degrees in Psychology, Sociology, and programs within the School of Education and Social Sciences, fields dedicated to improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Preference is given to junior-year students who demonstrate strong academic achievement, good character, and a commitment to their studies.
By creating both an annual scholarship that provides immediate support and an endowed scholarship that will benefit students for generations to come, Judi has ensured that her impact extends far beyond her own time on campus.
The Gift that Keeps on Giving
In addition to establishing these scholarships, Judi has further demonstrated her commitment to North Carolina Wesleyan by including the University in her estate plans. Through this legacy gift, she is helping secure Wesleyan’s future while creating opportunities for generations of students who will follow in her footsteps.
“Giving back to Wesleyan is a way of investing in students who are striving to create positive change,” said Judi. “Wesleyan provided me with the education and opportunities that made a rewarding career possible, and for that I will be forever grateful. Creating these scholarships and including Wesleyan in my estate plans are ways for me to pay it forward and help students pursue their own paths of service, leadership, and impact.”
Judi’s generosity serves as a powerful example of how alumni can transform lives through philanthropy.
For North Carolina Wesleyan University, the Vilagos Social Services Annual Scholarship, Vilagos Social Services Endowed Scholarship, and Howard Parsons Biomedical Endowed Scholarship stand as lasting reminders of the profound difference one alumna can make when she chooses to invest in the future of others.
