Our May spotlight shines on Ms. Phyllis Neal, a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Neal earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, from Wiley College in 1981. After graduation, Phyllis has diligently worked in the medical device industry for over 35 years inside Research and Development as a Scientist in addition to working in Quality and Regulatory. As a firm believer that education is key to advancement, Phyllis earned her Master’s Degree, Magna Cum Laude from Capella University in Business Administration in 2007.
As a child growing up in the United Methodist Church, Phyllis was always honored to hear the Wiley College A ‘Capella Choir when they would travel and perform at her home church; St. James United Methodist Church. She knew then that she wanted to be a part of such a wonderful institution. For Phyllis, God granted her the opportunity to attend Wiley and to be a part of the choir for four years. She adores her amazing Wiley College family. Phyllis states, “My fondest memory was when President Robert E. Hayes would sit on the steps of the White House, and call out “you girls” and we would go over and laugh and talk with him.”
Ms. Neal is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. with over 40 years of membership. She is the past President of the Wiley College National Alumni Association—a life member, and a breast cancer survivor.
Phyllis is the proud mother of two children—Phylicia and Patric and has two grandchildren —Kalli and Prince, whom she loves dearly. Phyllis always leads by example and believes, if she can help somebody along the way, then her living shall not be in vain.
Phyllis further states that Wiley College made her the woman that she is, and she is forever grateful, and will pledge to give Wiley College her all, financially and spiritually. She encourages all Wileyites to “Go forth inspired”! .