ASU Teams with Winery & Introduces New ASU-Branded Wine at 'Win(e)d Down Wednesday'

Alabama State University has partnered with an award-winning Alabama vineyard to produce and sell ASU-branded wine.
ASU’s new partnership with Lake Point Vineyard and Winery and the launching of its new Bama State Spirit Wine Collection was unveiled July 14 during the University’s virtual 'Win(e)d Down Wednesday,' where guests swirled, sniffed, sipped and savored the new ASU collection.
The announcement was kept secret until the big reveal at the end of the event, which followed a panel discussion by ASU alums highlighting why they love O’ Mother Dear so much and the many ways and opportunities alumni have to give to their alma mater.
“In celebration of the 154th birthday of O’ Mother Dear, the University is challenging us to represent our college with a minimum gift of $21 to your college or University area of choice," said panelist Bea Forniss, former president of ASU's National Alumni Association.
Panelist Jimmy Morris explained ASU alums have a deep affinity to the University because of all she has done for her past and present Hornets.
“We have a responsibility as alumni to share our time, talent, trust and TREASURE with ASU,” Morris expressed.
Panelist Amber A. Harris echoed Morris.
"Moving the institution forward is not just about money; but money is the investment in the future of Alabama State University,”
New Wine Collection
Lake Port Vineyard and Winery, located in Mathew, Alabama, is a family-owned winery run by black owners Daniel and Rita Lewis. The winery specializes in fruit wines, such as peach, watermelon and blended fruits, to name just a few.
“We are proud to be involved in the initiative. What excites us most about the partnership is the possibility of financially helping our students so that they can reach their full potential," said ASU President Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr. “We appreciate the company’s ongoing support.”
The ASU’s collection, which is a collaboration between the University and the winery, consists of three wines – Honey Love (a white wine), Honey Moon (a blush wine) and Desert Rose (a medium body red wine). Each of the wines will carry the ASU logo. A portion of the proceeds from sales will benefit student aid.
“This evening we are proud to announce that the wines you tasted this evening are part of the Bama State Spirit Wine Collection. Alabama State University seeks creative ways to promote excellence in communities of color and of course generate funding to support our students. Partnering with Lakepoint Vineyard presented us with a natural fit,” said Jennifer Anderson, executive director of the ASU Foundation/Institutional Advancement Initiatives.
When guests learned about the University’s highly creative initiative, they erupted into energetic applause.
Note: Those interested in purchasing these products to support ASU students can find the ASU-branded wine at Lakepoint Vineyard. In-state shipping will be announced at a later date.
For more information, contact the ASU Office of Development at asudevelopment@alasu.edu.
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