Announcements
Mar 24, 2025
March 24, 2025
Wiley University proudly announced the swearing-in of new leadership within its Board of Trustees during the institution’s Founders’ Celebration Weekend on Thursday, March 13, 2025. Among the newly appointed leaders, Ms. Kelley Cornish was officially sworn in as Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees, marking a historic milestone as the first woman in university history to serve in this role.
"It is such an exciting time at Wiley University. With its rich legacy, the university continues to build on its strong foundation under the leadership of President Herman J. Felton, Jr. and with the unwavering support of our Board of Trustees. Wiley University remains steadfast in its mission to provide a top-tier academic experience while making history in numerous ways. I am truly humbled to be a part of this historic moment and honored to serve as the new Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees. I extend my heartfelt thanks to my fellow trustees and Chairman Casey for their vote of confidence, and I look forward to our continued service together," said Ms. Cornish.
As Vice Chairman of the Wiley University Board of Trustees, Ms. Cornish will play a pivotal role in shaping the university’s strategic vision, governance, and institutional advancement. Her responsibilities will include collaborating with the Board Chairman and fellow trustees to drive key initiatives, providing leadership on policies that impact the university’s long-term growth, and ensuring financial and operational excellence. She will also work closely with university leadership to support student success, faculty development, and community engagement efforts.
Ms. Cornish, a distinguished corporate leader, serves as the President & CEO of the T.D. Jakes Foundation, a workforce development and community building foundation committed to improving the lifelong outcomes for communities and individuals who have limited access to resources and opportunities. A native of Aiken, South Carolina, she holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina at Aiken and a Master of Arts in Human Resources Management from Webster University. Additionally, she has completed executive education coursework at Harvard Kennedy School and Cornell University.
Throughout her career, Ms. Cornish has held senior leadership and global roles at Wells Fargo and T.D. Bank, where her work included leading planning, implementing strategy, and driving accountabilities for all internal functions supporting efforts across each organization. Her appointment as Vice Chairman of the Wiley University Board of Trustees reflects her commitment to leadership, empowerment, and institutional excellence.
Ms. Cornish is poised to make a significant impact at Wiley University by leveraging her national network, corporate expertise, and philanthropic connections to create new opportunities for students, cultivate strategic partnerships, and enhance career readiness initiatives. Her leadership will play a key role in expanding industry collaborations, increasing scholarship and internship opportunities, and strengthening pathways to postgraduate success. She is deeply committed to advancing the university’s financial sustainability by securing new funding sources, fostering stronger corporate and alumni engagement, and driving initiatives that support long-term institutional growth. Under her guidance, Wiley University will continue to elevate its standing among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), empowering students to excel as scholars, debaters, activists, athletes, vocalists, and leaders who make a lasting impact in their communities and industries.
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 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.
