Announcements
Aug 8, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARSHALL, Texas – Wiley University proudly announces that two of its outstanding students, Wayne Curtis II and Jean-Marie Farinha, have been selected as White House Scholars for the 2024-2025 HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) Scholar Recognition Program.
As representatives of Wiley University, Wayne Curtis II and Jean-Marie Farinha will participate in a series of workshops, networking events, and leadership development programs - including programming developed in partnership with NASA, according to the initiative’s official press release. These experiences are designed to enhance their skills, broaden their perspectives and strengthen their pipeline to competitive opportunities within their career fields.
“I am honored and humbled to have been selected as an HBCU White House Scholar. Such an honor fills me with immense pride and gratitude. It speaks volumes of the organization’s commitment to affirm and recognize the potential of students like myself,” said Wayne Curtis, a sophomore majoring in Computer Information Systems.
Wayne cites his faith as a driving factor in his ability to aspire to greater heights in his educational experience. “I believe wholeheartedly in Proverbs 18:16, which says, ‘A man’s gift makes room for him and brings him before the great.’ This quote from the Bible deeply resonates with me as I reflect on this noteworthy achievement. This is a manifestation that our talents, commitment, and positive work ethics would enable us to take advantage of opportunities and platforms if we have prepared ourselves to embrace possibilities.”
Jean-Marie Farinha, a junior studying biology, is excited to start this new journey and continue growing in her leadership abilities. “ As I am about to embark on such a prestigious journey, I eagerly await the opportunity to work with other scholars to foster leadership, facilitate partnerships and to be able to enhance my HBCU. Wiley University took a chance on me, and I can’t be more honored to represent my University.”
Jean-Marie discussed how the university’s ideals are a guiding inspiration in her pursuance of the greatest version of herself she can become. “I live up to the university’s slogan, which is to Go Forth Inspired. I made a promise to myself upon entering the university by agreeing to such words. I believe that it is instilled in me to go into the world and impact with purpose. Thank you, Wildcat Family.”
Danielle Sims Brooks, Ed.D. - Vice President for Student Affairs, Enrollment Management, and Strategic Retention at Wiley University - expressed her pride in Jean-Marie and Wayne as examples of the commitment to excellence that Wiley University students strive for.
“Today, we proudly celebrate the selection of two outstanding students from our institution as White House HBCU Scholars. This prestigious recognition is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the vibrant academic community we foster here. Their achievements inspire us all and exemplify the excellence and leadership that our students bring to the national stage. We look forward to witnessing their continued success and the positive impact they will undoubtedly make in the future."
Wiley University President and CEO Herman J. Felton Jr., Ph.D., J.D. is thrilled that Jean-Marie and Wayne will serve as representatives of Wiley University for this initiative.
“We congratulate Wayne and Jean-Marie on being selected as 2024-25 White House HBCU Scholars. They are truly representatives of our best. They are great scholars and have a passion for HBCUs. They will represent Wiley University well, and engage in the learning opportunities with eagerness and curiosity.”
During this next academic school year, students honored by the HBCU Scholar Recognition Program will also act as ambassadors for their respective institutions, communities, and the initiative, according to its webpage. The initiative will offer outreach and engagement opportunities to these selected students, along with valuable information and resources that they can share with their campus and peers.
To learn more about the HBCU Scholar Recognition Program, read the official press release here: https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/white-house-initiative-historically-black-colleges-and-universities-names-2024-hbcu-scholars
For more information about Wiley University, visit www.wileyc.edu, or contact Assistant Vice President of Public Relations and Marketing Marlee Archer at communications@wileyc.edu.
About Wiley University
Wiley University, founded in 1873 and formerly known as Wiley College, is a premier liberal institution, affiliated with the United Methodist Church, with an intentional focus on social good and leadership.
