Announcements
May 9, 2025
Marshall, TX – Wiley University proudly celebrated its 136th Commencement Weekend on May 2–3, 2025, with a vibrant and unforgettable display of achievement, purpose, and progress. Held at the historic Pemberton Athletic Field, the ceremony conferred degrees upon 135 graduates—each one a powerful symbol of resilience, academic excellence, and hope. More than 1,200 family members, friends, alumni, and community supporters gathered to witness this pivotal moment in the lives of Wileyites.
Graduates from Marshall, Texas, to Paris, France, stood united—ready to go forth inspired to lead, serve, and uplift. They represent the future of healthcare, law, education, business, public service, and more. This weekend was a celebration not only of personal achievement, but of the enduring legacy of Wiley University as a beacon of excellence among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
The Class of 2025 also included the inaugural graduates of Wiley University’s newly launched online graduate programs—Master of Arts in Criminal Justice, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Science in Higher Education Administration—reflecting the institution’s growing commitment to expanding access to high-quality education for working professionals and lifelong learners.
But perhaps the most moving moment of all came from what these students didn’t have to carry across the stage: debt. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of The Jack and Jill Foundation—the oldest African American-led nonprofit in the United States—and several anonymous donors, the entire Class of 2025 graduated with no remaining balance owed to the University.
This act of collective giving removed a major barrier that disproportionately affects Black college students: financial insecurity. At a time when student loan debt continues to weigh heavily on American families, this investment in Wiley’s graduates sends a bold message—that students from underserved communities deserve to dream boldly, graduate debt-free, and step into their futures with dignity and freedom. Biology major Thomas Leggs of Sacramento, California, shared that, “Wiley University has not just been a place of learning, but a community that believes in the potential of its students—a true beacon light.” His balance was cleared thanks to one of the anonymous donors, allowing him to walk across the stage debt-free and focused on his future.
This year’s valedictorian, Ms. Aniyah Clark, a Sociology major from St. Louis, Missouri, and a member of the A Cappella Choir of Wiley University, delivered a heartfelt address that reflected the growth she experienced at Wiley. “Four years ago, I never believed I would be my class valedictorian—not because I wasn’t smart enough, but because of my fear of public speaking. But Wiley gave me the resources to not only learn but be confident with what I have to say.” Her remarks resonated deeply with graduates and guests alike as she shared her journey to becoming a confident leader, now preparing to attend DePaul University for graduate study in Clinical Counseling.
The weekend also honored Wiley University's rich legacy by celebrating the Golden Classes of 1970 through 1975, marking the 50th to 55th anniversaries of their graduation. These alumni were recognized for their lifelong contributions and as enduring symbols of what Wiley University produces: generation after generation of leaders, trailblazers, and changemakers.
For more information about the Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Inc., please visit https://jackandjillfoundation.org/. For more information about Wiley University, please contact Catherine G. Sellers, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications, and Brand Management, at communications@wileyc.edu or visit www.wileyc.edu.
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About Wiley University:
Wiley University, formerly known as Wiley College, is a premier liberal arts institution affiliated with 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.
About the Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Inc.:
The Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Inc. is the oldest African American-led nonprofit organization in the U.S. and the philanthropic arm of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. The Foundation focuses on addressing issues affecting African American children and families by investing in programs that provide access to quality education, healthcare, and safe environments. Its mission is to create a strong foundation for children’s long-term growth and to transform African American communities—one child at a time. The Foundation believes that focusing on key areas such as housing insecurity, education, health and wellness, and the African American family as a whole can bring about lasting, positive outcomes. Visithttps://jackandjillfoundation.org/ to learn more.
