A Lasting Gift of Learning from Gibson and Mary Anna Gray

For Gibson and Mary Anna Gray, education was more than a value; it was a way of lifting others. Their belief in opportunity and service guided their lives, and now that legacy continues at UNC Pembroke. The couple’s $1.25M estate gift to date establishes the Gibson and Mary Anna Gray Endowed Scholarship, providing need-based support for generations of students to come.

The new endowment stands as a powerful reflection of the Grays’ lifelong dedication to learning, opportunity and community service.

Dr. Gordon Gibson Gray, a World War II U.S. Army veteran, earned degrees from the University of Texas at Austin and Columbia University before joining UNC Pembroke’s political science faculty in 1971. During his 19 years on campus, he became known not only for his deep knowledge of public administration and citizenship, but for the way he invested in his students as individuals.

Beyond the classroom, he was an active member of the Lumberton Lions Club for more than 30 years, earning its highest honor, the Jack Stickley Fellow Award. Dr Gray passed away in 2020 at age 97.

His wife, Mary Anna Gray, a native of Robeson County and alumna of Flora MacDonald College, shared her husband’s civic and landholding interests and was widely-known for her devotion to family and community. She passed away in 2024 at age 85. 

For former student Elizabeth Wilkerson ’88, Dr. Gray’s influence continues to resonate.
“Dr. Gray taught many of my public administration classes, and his knowledge and experience were so important to my education,” said Wilkerson, executive director of UNCP’s Thomas Entrepreneurship Hub. “He tied our lessons to real-world experiences and made learning engaging. The classes were small and personable, and he knew each of us by name.”

She remembers him as approachable, kind and always willing to listen.

“Even after I graduated, he remembered me and took time to ask about my career,” she said. “That kindness always stood out.”

Vice Chancellor for Advancement Anita Stallings said the Grays’ generosity will make a profound difference.

“The Grays’ foresight and generosity have created a lasting source of support for UNC Pembroke students,” Stallings said. “Their endowed scholarship will grow in perpetuity, extending the impact of their lives and values for generations to come.”

The Gibson and Mary Anna Gray Endowed Scholarship reflects the couple’s lifelong dedication to education and service, ensuring that their influence will continue to open doors of opportunity for future Braves.

If you’re inspired by the Grays’ commitment to student opportunity and want to learn how your planned gift can make a lasting difference, visit uncp.edu/advancement or call 910.775.4661.