The enthusiasm and support of the Virginia State University community are unmatched. That spirit was on full display during the 
limited-time sale of the now-iconic VSU-themed clacking fans, which raised $16,440 for the Student Tuition Assistance Fund. The 
fans, which gained national attention following the University’s 2025 Spring Commencement, were made available to the public 
and quickly became a symbol of Trojan pride.
The clacking fans were originally featured in the University’s surprise “Boots On The Ground” celebration during commencement. 
Secretly placed under graduates’ seats, the fans were revealed just as the viral hit by 803Fresh played over the loudspeakers. 
Graduates erupted in excitement, dancing along to the song’s famous line: “Where them fans at?”
A video capturing the celebration garnered millions of views across social media platforms and was picked up by national outlets. 
The overwhelming response prompted students, alumni, and community members to ask how they could get a fan of their own.
In response, VSU offered a limited release of the fans to the public. A total of 800 fans were sold, with $20 from each sale going 
directly to the Student Tuition Assistance Fund. These funds help support students facing unexpected financial challenges that may 
otherwise hinder their ability to remain enrolled.
“It just goes to show how our viral videos have a profound impact,” said Dr. Gwen Williams Dandridge, Assistant Vice President 
for Communications. “By offering the fans for purchase, we not only shared a piece of that unforgettable day, but we also helped 
to open doors for our Trojans through tuition assistance. We turned a joyful moment into a meaningful opportunity, which is a 
powerful way to show that Greater Happens Here, and everyone can be a part of it.”
Virginia State University extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who purchased a fan and contributed to the cause. The University 
remains committed to launching creative initiatives that engage the community, elevate student experiences, and embody its 
motto: Greater Happens Here.
VSU Viral Commencement Fans Raise More Than 
$16,000 For Tuition Assistance
I M P A C T  R E P O R T  -  2 0 2 3 ­— 2 5
Supporting The Student Tuition Assistance Fund
GREATER fundRaising
P A G E  2 0
P A G E  2 1
I M P A C T  R E P O R T  -  2 0 2 3 ­— 2 5
I M P A C T  R E P O R T  -  2 0 2 3 ­— 2 5
Viral Moment Leads To Meaningful Impact
GREATER fundRaising
The VSU Student Tuition Assistance Fund helps support students 
facing unexpected financial challenges that may otherwise hinder 
their ability to remain enrolled at the University. 
FY 2023
$100,000
$200,000
$300,000
$400,000
$500,000
$600,000
$700,000
FISCAL YEAR
GIFTS
FY 2024
FISCAL YEAR
FY 2025
FISCAL YEAR
$597,642.83
$407,915.50
STUDENT TUITION ASSISTANCE FUND GIFTS
$360,102.83

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