UNC Pembroke names Health Sciences Building in honor of former Sen. David Weinstein

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As a state senator, David Weinstein made it a key focus of his personal legislative mission to work to solidify the future of his university, The University of North Carolina at Pembroke. 

Through his efforts, UNCP was the recipient of strong legislative funding over his tenure as senator, including $29 million to build a state-of-the-art Health Sciences building. He considered the building his greatest accomplishment as a legislator. 

On Friday, the university’s Board of Trustees unanimously voted to name the building in honor of Weinstein, a longtime supporter and friend of UNC Pembroke. 

“I applaud the trustees’ decision to honor David Weinstein’s long history of service to UNC Pembroke and his ongoing commitment to our institution,” said Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings. 

“Through public advocacy and personal giving, he has played a significant role in transforming the university’s campus and preparing us to advance our mission for years to come,” Cummings said. 

Opened in 2012, the 87,000-square-foot allied health building houses the Department of Nursing, the Department of Social Work, biology labs, and a food court. 

The new Health Sciences Building allowed the four-year, licensure nursing program to double in size to 200 students and add a master's degree program. The building continues to grow the nursing and social work programs, leaving a lasting impact throughout our region. 

During his 13 years as a senator, Weinstein helped guide a total of $92 million to UNC Pembroke for building projects. He was instrumental in a multi-million dollar special appropriation to build the first new residence hall in 20 years. From a successful $2 billion bond referendum, Weinstein carved out $57 million that transformed the university.   

Weinstein served on the university’s Board of Trustees from 1992 to 1996, including one term as chair. The retired legislator and former Lumberton mayor has continued to serve UNCP when called upon. 

Dr. Joe Oxendine served as Chancellor during part of Weinstein’s senatorial work for UNCP.  “This is a most deserving recognition for a true friend of our university. I am very happy for David.” 

In 2008, he established the Max Weinstein Endowed Scholarship in History, named for his father. Five years later, Weinstein established a $25,000 endowed nursing scholarship. 

In 2010, Weinstein was awarded the UNC Pembroke Alumni Association’s Special Award of Distinction to celebrate 20 years of extraordinary commitment to the university. 

UNC Pembroke is a constituent institution of the University of North Carolina system. For more information, contact Mark Locklear, Public Communications Specialist with University Communications and Marketing, via email (mark.locklear@uncp.edu) or by phone (910.521.6351). Connect with UNC Pembroke on social media or online at uncp.edu to learn how the university is changing lives through education.