Announcements
Oct 29, 2025
Marshall, TX – Wiley University proudly concluded its 2025 Homecoming celebration, themed “Back to the Yard: The Purple and White Experience,” with record-breaking generosity, spirited campus pride, and meaningful moments that will resonate throughout the institution’s legacy.
In conjunction with the Homecoming festivities, Wiley University launched a new campaign to strengthen its endowment, supported by a matching gift program from the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). The Campaign to Strengthen the University Endowment has an ambitious goal of $5 million, initiated by generous gifts totaling more than $100,000 from dedicated alumni and friends.
“The kickoff of this campaign during Homecoming provided an incredible opportunity for our alumni and faith-based communities to lead the way in giving for this vital initiative,” said President and CEO Dr. Herman J. Felton Jr. “We are not just raising funds; we are igniting a movement to ensure that Wiley University remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for future generations. Every contribution, no matter the size, plays a crucial role in propelling our institution forward, and we invite everyone to join us in this mission.”
Thanks to three substantial gifts—alongside numerous donations from alumni and friends—the university has already surpassed its initial goal of $50,000. Contributions include more than $30,000 from alumni and friends, $50,000 from the Alpha Sigma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and over $10,000 from Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church of Marshall, Texas, along with a Greek Giveback Challenge exceeding $10,000.
These contributions mark the beginning of a campaign inviting all constituents to support the institution. The emphasis on giving is crucial to ensure Wiley University meets its $5 million goal, unlocking significant matching funds from UNCF.
In support of its mission, UNCF has launched large-scale institutional matching campaigns, including a recent capital initiative that empowers member institutions to raise matching funds—effectively doubling the impact of each foundational contribution.
Homecoming 2025 reflected the strength, unity, and pride of the Wiley University family, celebrating generations of scholars, leaders, and change-makers who continue to make a difference both on and beyond campus. The invitation to contribute to the UNCF Match Endowment Gift is part of President Dr. Herman J. Felton Jr.’s bold commitment to raise $5 million over the next year, securing a stronger endowment that will enhance the fiscal well-being and long-term sustainability of the institution.
For more information about Wiley University, please contact Catherine G. Sellers, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications, at csellers@wileyc.edu or (903) 927-3386. To give, please visit bit.ly/GiveWileyUToday.
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About Wiley University:
Wiley University, formerly known as Wiley College, is a premier liberal arts institution related to the United Methodist Church. The university is dedicated to fostering social good and developing leaders who make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.
