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Black History Month | February 2025

Black History Month at Wiley University

Theme: Excellence is Our Story: Uplifting the Legacy

As a proud Historically Black College and University (HBCU) with over 150 years of rich history, Wiley University stands as a beacon of light in Marshall, TX, and beyond. Black History Month is of profound significance to us as we celebrate not only the resilience and contributions of African Americans throughout history but also the ongoing legacy of excellence that has been shaped here at Wiley.

Known for its tradition of social good and leadership, Wiley University has produced a distinguished group of alumni who have made transformative contributions in various fields. Esteemed figures such as Ms. Opal Lee '53, Mr. Heman M. Sweatt '34, Mr. James Farmer, Jr. '38, Mr. Bill Spiller '38, Ms. Zephyr Wright '42, and Ms. Thelma Dewitty '41 are just a few of the university’s graduates whose activism, leadership, and dedication to justice continue to influence society today.

As an HBCU, we take pride in honoring their legacies and continue to uplift the stories of those who paved the way. Join us this Black History Month as we celebrate the powerful contributions of African Americans and reaffirm our commitment to creating a future rooted in excellence, empowerment, and social change.

Black History Month Events

A Tribute to Black Excellence

Date: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 | Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Julius S. Scott, Jr. Chapel
Featured Speaker: Attorney Ginger Jenkins-Cartwright

Powered by: the Office of the President

Featured Movie: Just Mercy

Date: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 | Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Hodge Center
Presented by: Heman Sweatt Center for Social Good and Leadership

Debate at the Historic Courthouse

Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025 | Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Historic 1901 Harrison County Courthouse, Commissioners Courtroom
Featuring: The Great Debaters of the Melvin B. Tolson & Denzel Washington Forensic Society

Black Brilliance: Family Feud Edition

Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025 | Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Hodge Center

Presented by: Heman Sweatt Center for Social Good and Leadership

Buy Black: The Black Dollar Panel Discussion

Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025 | Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Hodge Center
Presented by: Heman Sweatt Center for Social Good and Leadership

Power in the Fabric Fashion Show

Date: Friday, February 28, 2025 | Time: 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Location: Pemberton Hynes Auditorium
Presented by: Heman Sweatt Center for Social Good and Leadership

Support the Legacy: Donate to Wiley University

As we celebrate Black History Month and the remarkable achievements of the African American community, we invite you to support Wiley University and its initiatives that uplift and empower future generations. Your donations help us continue offering programs and events that highlight excellence in education, leadership, and community involvement.

To make a contribution and be part of the movement that uplifts the legacy of excellence, please visit the link below:

Donate Now

Join Us in Celebrating Black History Month!

We invite all members of the Wiley University community, including students, faculty, and staff, to participate in these meaningful events. This month, we come together to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire future generations to continue the legacy of excellence, resilience, and empowerment within the African American community.