UNCA mourns the death of long-time supporter, retired Rep. Wilma M. Sherrill

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — UNC Asheville "is saddened to learn" of the passing of retired Representative Wilma M. Sherrill on Dec. 18, 2025 at the age of 86, UNCA noted in a recent news release.

"Representative Sherrill has been a supporter of UNC Asheville since the 1960s, when she helped form the first Bulldog fundraising club, and she has remained a dedicated supporter of UNC Asheville Athletics since then," the release stated

UNCA Chancellor Kimberly van Noort said in the release.“Wilma Sherrill was one of UNC Asheville’s most steadfast and ardent supporters for decades,” “Her commitment to the University has had a tremendous positive impact on our students and the entire campus community.”

The release added, "Her largest contribution to the yniversity was in her role as a member of the North Carolina House of Representatives, when she helped secure funding for the 133,500-square-foot Sherrill Center which houses the Health Sciences Department and the N.C. Center for Health and Wellness. The facility, named in her honor, is also home to Kimmel Arena, which hosts the university’s biannual Commencement ceremonies and is the home court for the UNC Asheville men’s and women’s basketball programs."

UNCA Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone said in the release, “UNC Asheville has lost a devoted advocate whose tireless support strengthened our athletic programs and community. We are grateful for Wilma's many contributions and the positive opportunities she created for our university. The entire athletics family sends sincere condolences to her loved ones."

Representative Sherrill’s support of the UNC Asheville also included her service on numerous University boards, including UNC Asheville Board of Trustees for nine years, the Bulldog Athletic Association for more than 10 years, and several committees tasked with hiring coaches and administrators. She was also UNCA's Special Assistant to the Chancellor on External Affairs from 2008 to 2009.

"In recognition of her service to the university, Representative Sherrill was inducted into the UNC Asheville Athletics Hall of Fame in 2019," the release moted. "The university will hold a celebration of life for Representative Sherrill in the Sherrill Center during the Spring 2026 semester."