Kelvin and Karen L. Sampson Champion the Next Generation of Braves
Even while leading one of the most unforgettable seasons in recent college basketball history, University of Houston Head Coach Kelvin Sampson and his wife, UNCP Trustee Karen L. Sampson, made time to give back to their roots. The proud UNCP alumni recently made a significant gift to their alma mater, establishing the Karen L. and Kelvin Sampson Nutrition Station — a transformative resource supporting the health, wellness and performance of student-athletes. The station, named in their honor, is a central hub for nutrition education and wellness programming. Designed to help athletes develop healthy habits and compete at their highest levels, the station underscores the Sampsons’ deep commitment to student success on and off the field.
Their gift came during a historic 2024-25 season for Kelvin and the University of Houston men’s basketball team. The Cougars finished the regular season with an outstanding 28-3 record. Entering the NCAA Tournament as a national powerhouse, Houston delivered an electrifying postseason run that carried them to the national championship game, including a statement victory over the storied Duke Blue Devils. Despite a hard-fought 2-point loss to Florida, the Cougars’ season is one of the most memorable in program history, marked by excellence, unity and a return to the national spotlight. Yet, even amid that spotlight, the Sampsons never forgot where it all began. “One thing I tell every kid I coach is, ‘Don’t forget where you come from,’” Kelvin said. “No matter where we’ve been, Pembroke has always been with us.” Both Karen and Kelvin are proud graduates of what was then Pembroke State University. Karen, Class of 1976, was active in student life and currently serves on the university’s board of trustees. Kelvin, Class of 1978, captained the men’s basketball team, played baseball and was inducted into the UNCP Athletics Hall of Fame in 1998.
Their legacy of giving is long-standing. In addition to being active members of the Braves Club, the Sampsons previously established the John W. (Ned) and Eva B. Sampson Endowed Basketball Scholarship, honoring Kelvin’s parents. “Karen and Kelvin know firsthand the demands placed on student-athletes,” said Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings. “They understand that success on the court begins with preparation off the court — including nutrition, wellness and balance.” UNCP Athletics Director Dick Christy said the Sampsons’ impact on their alma mater is invaluable.
“Karen and Kelvin have been at the forefront of athletic nutrition at the Division I level,” added Christy.
Their investment in UNCP will not only elevate our athletes’ performance but also impact their lives far beyond their time at UNCP