North Carolina Central University Athletics

Alyce Peaks Little, a native of Durham, NC, received her B.S. Degree in Business Administration from NCCU in 1979.  Although she was employed full time as an Accountant Technician in the University’s Accounts Payable Department, Alyce gave unselfishly of herself to mentor, mother, and guide young individuals through the NCCU Cheerleaders program for more than ten years.  She provided students with a rigorous and challenging program, helping to generate spirit and enthusiasm throughout the athletic seasons.
A more dedicated person could not be found.  She often was seen driving up and down highways, many times late at night, and many times in cold, rainy, and even snowy weather transporting the Cheerleaders to athletic events both during football and basketball seasons.  She never complained about the long hours on treacherous highways even though she sometimes returned just a few hours before she had to be at her desk, ready to work at 8 a.m.
Alyce raised her own two children, but also served as a caring and genuine “mother” substitute for others, somehow always managing a smile and a helping hand; it was obvious that she cared more for others than she did for herself.  Not only did she spend her time, but many times she spent her own money to ensure that her “kids” were on an “even playing field” as other NCCU athletes as well as other squads in the CIAA.
Through her love for NCCU and the students, Alyce established the Alyce Peaks Little Scholarship for Cheerleaders.  This award was to be given to a young lady or man who had served on the Varsity Squad for at least two years and had exhibited outstanding academic and community excellence.  This scholarship continues to provide monies to worthy NCCU Cheerleaders.
In addition, Alyce spent many hours each basketball season preparing personal scrapbooks for each senior on the Men’s and Women’s Basketball Teams.  She collected articles that appeared in the local papers and mounted them in a treasured memento for these students.  She presented these “reflections” at the end of the season.
Alyce’s services extended beyond her position in the Accounting Department and her dedication to the Cheerleaders; she also found time to serve the Durham community through service and honor, worked extensively with the Durham Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, held active membership in her church (Mount Vernon) where she sang in the choir, served as Advisor to the NCCU undergraduate chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, was an avid bowler, and gave of herself without expecting anything in return.
Alyce passed away on November 29, 2003.