Contact: Crystal Drake, Office of Strategic Communications
As a highly engaged co-chair of
The Campaign for Tuskegee University: Solving the World’s Most Complex Problems, a multi-year $300 million comprehensive institutional advancement initiative, distinguished alumnus Dr. Bill Winston ’67 continues to demonstrate the power of philanthropy and service through action.
Through a recent in-kind gift valued at $250,000, he made significant renovations to Tuskegee University’s historic chapel possible, helping preserve one of the institution’s most cherished landmarks while enhancing accessibility and the visitor experience for future generations.
“Mother Tuskegee remains grateful to the excellent example of proactive generosity Dr. Winston continues to be,” said Dr. Mark A. Brown, president and CEO. “In Tuskegee University’s Renaissance Era, the University Chapel remains both an architectural wonder and a place of collective fellowship for our campus and the wider Tuskegee community. Dr. Winston’s gift will make this sacred space even more welcoming.”
Recently completed improvements to the Chapel’s first floor include renovated restroom facilities and other modifications, making the building more appealing and welcoming to all visitors.
“My inspiration begins with the belief that we are all called to lead by example,” said Dr. Winston, a native of Tuskegee, Alabama. “I was greatly influenced by the legacy of Booker T. Washington, both educationally and spiritually. There was no one like him. His example continues to motivate me to innovate and to become all that God created me to be for the good of others.”
The renovation project emerged as an opportunity to help when Dr. Winston was on campus in September 2025 as the guest speaker during the ecumenical service held during the investiture ceremonies for Dr. Mark A. Brown, president and CEO.
Several months later, Dr. Winston met with Dr. Cecil A. Duffie, Dean of the Chapel, at the headquarters of Dr. Winston’s ministry outside Chicago. During the conversation, Dr. Winston learned that restroom renovations were needed.
“I believe God’s house should be excellent, especially one as historic as the University’s Chapel,” Dr. Winston said. “I saw an opportunity to help and improve the quality of campus life for students, faculty, and guests.”
For Dr. Winston, the renovations are much more than a facilities upgrade. They represent strengthening the Chapel’s role as a welcoming center for fellowship, reflection, learning, and community engagement.
“People are drawn to excellence,” he said adding that he envisions the renovations will encourage more people to attend.
The project aligns with the evolving vision of the Chapel under the leadership of Dean Duffie, who has expanded its role as a gathering space that welcomes people from all backgrounds while remaining grounded in its spiritual mission.
“We are building curiosity, connection and community through our Chapel,” said Dr. Duffie, “and these beautiful and much-needed renovations advance our goal to make this sacred space comfortable and inviting and for all comers.”
The Chapel occupies a unique place in Tuskegee University history. The original structure was built between 1896 and 1898, constructed largely by students who produced approximately 1.2 million bricks from red clay found on campus. The building was designed by Robert R. Taylor, director of the Department of Mechanical Industries and the first African American graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
After the original chapel was destroyed by fire in 1957, a new facility was built and reopened in 1969, two years after Dr. Winston graduated.
Following his graduation in 1967, Dr. Winston served six years as a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal, and the Squadron Top Gun Award.
After military service, he built a successful corporate career at IBM, where he rose through the ranks in marketing and strategic operations. During that period, a transformative spiritual experience reshaped the course of his life and eventually led him to leave the corporate world to pursue full-time ministry.
Today, Winston serves as founder and senior pastor of Living Word Christian Center, a global, multicultural ministry headquartered in Forest Park, Illinois. He is also the founder of more than 20 businesses and organizations, including Joseph Business School, Bill Winston Ministries, and several entrepreneurial ventures dedicated to economic empowerment and faith-based leadership.
“Tuskegee shaped who I am,” Winston said. “Helping to strengthen its future is both an honor and a responsibility.”
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