“Her hugs are incomparable. Her wisdom is heaven sent. Her smile is contagious, and her love is unconditional! Mama, thank you for it all! I love and will definitely miss you” -Tyra Barnes, senior, arts studies
“Mama Thorpe is a ray of sunshine in every aspect of her being. From the time she met me she instilled confidence and love in me, and inspired me to go out and spread that to the campus community. Only so many times a person can tell you “aww look at you being Barack-ish” before you truly believe you can do anything. I am sad she is leaving but I know for sure she has earned her retirement, accolades, and all the love she has fostered and received in her time here. Truly the G.O.A.T.” – Malik Hines, junior, political science
“The light from her smile could brighten the darkest room. We as a university owe a great debt to Mama Thorpe. Her very presence, her intense desire to teach, learn from, and love those around her, and her spectacular attitude have inspired thousands and will continue to inspire people long after her graceful spirit steps off the last brick. While I know I speak for many when I say we are saddened to see her go, I feel confident I also speak for many when I say thank you. Thank you to the strong, passionate soul that touched the lives of more people than she could ever know. Thank you for the shared tears. Thank you for the laughs. Thank you for all you have done, and all you have yet to do. In this last symbolic circle of gratitude, for you, Mama Thorpe, I am eternally grateful.” – Colin Beamer, senior, political science
“Mama Thorpe has played an influential part in many of our college careers and overall experience. She’s had a vital part in teaching many of us our inherent value through tough times. When I came to tour the AACC during symposium, I had no idea I would leave feeling at home and part of the AACC family. Mama has been the constant at NCSU that has helped me, and many others, get past rough situations and times of uncertainty. I will take many of the values she has helped ingrain into me throughout my college career and continue her legacy of helping others better understand whose they are, who they are, and where they are going in this world.” – Jordan Anderson, junior, environmental technology and management
Toni Thorpe, program director at the N.C. State African American Cultural Center, leads the congregation in the Harambee chant. Thorpe, known in the community as Mama Thorpe, when asked what makes her feel that Harambee is an important event said, “These students are the seeds of the future!” Photo by Gavin Stone
“Mamma Thorpe…she means home to me. She’s a warm woman. She gives the best advice when it comes to difficult situations, especially if it involves friends. She’s kind of like this comforting presence; whenever you’re around her, it’s just like, calm. She’s always willing to open her arms and let you in and just give you a comforting environment whenever you need it.” – Audrey Moore, senior, animal science
“There’s so many wonderful things to say about [Toni]. What I’ve noticed over the last 18 months or so is that her eyes light up when every student walks into whatever space she’s in. It’s really incredible to watch these students transform with the recognition that there’s somebody who is genuinely concerned about their well-being and success on this campus. And that’s for any student regardless of ethnicity, gender, ability, all of that. She has reminded me of the importance of being authentic in your relationships with your students and your colleagues. It’s just been really wonderful to watch her engage and to learn from her.” -Dr. Frances Graham, interim director of African American Culture Center
“I wasn’t as close to Mama Thorpe personally like many of my peers, but from the many times I’ve been around I’ve always felt loved and supported. I don’t want to say that her hugs are better than my own mama’s, but they are. I’m going to miss her so much.” -Jason Day, junior, statistics
“Mama Thorpe is probably the most positive person I’ve met in my life. To be in her presence was a blessing because no matter your circumstances, she would always make you feel happy.” Travis Gatling, Class of 2015, civil engineering
“I never felt like home could be anywhere until I met Mama Thorpe. I think we can all attest to the fact that mama is patient and kind and loving and has the most amazing hugs, but I think I am blessed to know just how effortless but also challenging it was for mama Thorpe to be home for everyone. On days when I didn’t even think I needed it, mama Thorpe completely reaffirmed my existence and loved on me, most times to the point of tears. However, I appreciate her most because I really grew to understand the amount of energy and intentionality behind her beautiful words and kind deeds. How much she learned and experienced to be who she is is the lesson I definitely that I cherish most, and for her, I am eternally grateful. Happy retirement, Mama Thorpe — “I am because you are.” – Jasmine Cannon, Class of 2016, women and gender studies
