UNCW Dedicates Sayed Hall Following Historic Gift

UNCW’s Education Building has a new name — Sayed Hall.  

University officials named the building in honor of Dr. Yousry Sayed and his wife, Linda ’78, ’85M, whose transformative $25 million gift to UNCW will strengthen teacher education programs and expand medical education, clinical care and healthcare services across the region. The university held a dedication ceremony on Sept. 5 in the Sayed Hall atrium.  

Chancellor Aswani K. Volety praised the Sayeds for their generosity, which will support a wide range of healthcare workforce programs and research initiatives, while also bolstering teacher education programs. 

“Renaming the Education Building to Sayed Hall is a tribute to the Sayeds’ enduring impact on our campus and community,” said Volety. 

UNCW received a $25 million gift commitment from the Sayeds in February to support healthcare initiatives and teacher recruitment and retention. Of that, $5 million is designated for programs that recruit prospective teachers. A portion of this funding will also support scholarships for individuals transitioning into a teaching career. 

“Welcoming students to Sayed Hall this fall was an incredible honor,” said Tracy Linderholm, dean of the Watson College of Education. “Dr. Yousry and Linda Sayed’s generosity and commitment to future educators inspire us all.” 

Officials also recognized the 40th anniversary of the Betty Holden Stike Education Laboratory during the event. The education lab is a teaching and learning space where education students gain hands-on experience by tutoring children. Through personalized instruction in reading, writing and math, tutors apply classroom theory in real-world settings while receiving guidance from faculty mentors. 

Previous Coverage 

UNCW Receives $25 Million Gift to Boost Teacher Education and Healthcare Programs 

UNCW Awards Honorary Doctorate to Philanthropist Linda Sayed 

The Sayeds’ Legacy of Generosity