What is Wiley University, and where is it located?

Wiley University is a private, historically black college situated in Marshall, Texas. It is recognized as one of the oldest predominantly black colleges located west of the Mississippi River.

When was Wiley University established, and by whom?

Wiley University was established in 1873 by Bishop Isaac Wiley of the Methodist Episcopal Church. It was later certified in 1882 by the Freedman's Aid Society.

What is the historical significance of Wiley University in terms of its founding?

Wiley University holds historical significance as one of the oldest predominantly black colleges established west of the Mississippi River, founded by the Methodist Episcopal Church.

What were the enrollment figures for Wiley University around the mid-2000s and early 2010s?

In the 2005-2006 academic year, on-campus enrollment was close to 450 students, with an additional 250 students in an off-campus program in Shreveport, Louisiana. By the fall of 2006, the total enrollment reached approximately 750 students, and by the fall of 2013, it had surpassed 1,000 students.

What is Wiley University's admissions policy regarding student entry?

Wiley University operates under an open admissions policy, meaning it accepts students who meet basic criteria without highly selective academic thresholds. This approach aims to provide educational opportunities to a broader range of students.

What percentage of Wiley University students receive financial aid?

Approximately 96% of students attending Wiley University receive some form of financial aid, indicating a strong reliance on financial assistance to support student enrollment.

What is Wiley University particularly known for, according to the provided text?

Wiley University is notably recognized for its successful debate team. The text highlights the team's impressive record and national attention.

What was the historical record of Melvin B. Tolson's debate teams at Wiley University?

Under the coaching of Melvin B. Tolson, Wiley University's debate teams achieved remarkable success, losing only 1 out of 75 debates over a 15-year period.

What significant debate did Wiley's team participate in during 1935?

In 1935, Wiley's debate team gained national attention by competing against the highly ranked debate team from the University of Southern California.

When did Wiley College officially change its name back to Wiley University, and why?

On November 3, 2023, Wiley College announced its name change back to Wiley University. This change coincided with the establishment of a new graduate school program set to launch in 2024.

What was the original name of Wiley University, and when did it change to Wiley College?

The original name of the institution was Wiley University, established in 1873. It was renamed Wiley College in 1929 and reverted to Wiley University in 2023.

What role did Wiley University play in the Civil Rights Movement in Texas?

Wiley University, along with Bishop College, was instrumental in the Civil Rights Movement in Texas. Students from Wiley participated in the first sit-ins in Texas, protesting segregation at public facilities.

Who was James Farmer, and what was his connection to Wiley University and the Civil Rights Movement?

James Farmer, a graduate of Wiley University, was a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, known as one of the 'Big Four'. He played a key role in organizing early sit-ins and Freedom Rides across the United States.

Who were the other key figures James Farmer collaborated with during the Civil Rights Movement?

James Farmer worked alongside Roy Wilkins, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Whitney M. Young Jr. in organizing significant civil rights actions like sit-ins and Freedom Rides.

Where was the initial campus location of Wiley University before it moved?

The original campus of Wiley University was located in south Marshall, Texas, near what is now known as the Wiley College Cemetery.

When did the campus of Wiley University move to its current downtown Marshall location?

The campus was moved to a seventy-acre plot in downtown Marshall in 1880.

Who was the first college graduate of Wiley University, and what degree did they receive?

Henry B. Pemberton was the first college graduate of Wiley University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in 1888.

Who were the initial faculty and staff at Wiley University?

For the first twenty years of its existence, the president, faculty, and staff of Wiley University were church missionaries and were White.

Who was the first African American president of Wiley University, and what significant change did they implement?

Isaiah B. Scott was the first African American president of Wiley University, serving from 1893 to 1896. During his tenure, he changed the institution's policy regarding the race of faculty and staff.

Who succeeded Isaiah B. Scott as president, and for how long did they serve?

Matthew Winfred Dogan replaced Isaiah B. Scott as president in 1896 and held the position until 1942, serving for 46 years.

What major event impacted the Wiley University campus in 1906?

In 1906, a fire occurred that destroyed five of the eleven buildings on the Wiley University campus. However, these buildings were subsequently rebuilt.

How did Wiley University acquire funding for the construction of its president's home and library in 1907?

President Dogan secured a grant from the Carnegie Foundation, which enabled the construction of the president's home and a library on campus, built by students.

What was the significance of the Carnegie Foundation-funded library at Wiley University?

The library built with the Carnegie Foundation grant was significant because it was open to the entire community of Marshall and served as the town's only library until 1974.

When did Wiley University cease supporting a high school program?

By 1929, the institution no longer supported a high school, focusing solely on higher education.

What was the outcome of the 1935 debate between Wiley College and the University of Southern California?

In 1935, the Wiley College debate team defeated the reigning national debate champions from the University of Southern California. This victory was later depicted in the movie 'The Great Debaters'.

How did Denzel Washington contribute to the re-establishment of Wiley University's debate team?

In 2007, Denzel Washington announced a donation of $1 million to Wiley University specifically to support the re-establishment of its debate team.

What significant athletic conference was Wiley University a founding member of?

Wiley University was a founding member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), competing in it from the 1920-21 academic year to the 1967-68 academic year.

What athletic conferences does Wiley University currently compete in?

Wiley University is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and competes primarily in the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC), formerly known as the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC), since the 2022-23 academic year.

What is the mascot of Wiley University?

The mascot of Wiley University is Wiley the Wildcat.

Who is the current president of Wiley University as of the provided text?

Herman J. Felton Jr. is listed as the current president of Wiley University.

What is the approximate size of Wiley University's campus in acres?

Wiley University's campus spans 134 acres, which is described as a rural setting.

What are the official school colors of Wiley University?

The official school colors of Wiley University are Purple, Black, White, and Gray.

What is the financial endowment of Wiley University?

Wiley University has a financial endowment of $7.4 million.

Who was Melvin B. Tolson, and what was his role at Wiley University?

Melvin B. Tolson was a noted poet and an English professor at Wiley University. He is particularly remembered for coaching the university's highly successful debate teams.

Who was James L. Farmer, Sr., and what was his connection to Wiley University?

James L. Farmer, Sr., was the first African American in Texas to earn a Ph.D. He also served as a professor at Wiley University.

What notable achievement did R. E. Brown, a Wiley alumnus from the class of 1899, accomplish?

R. E. Brown organized the first male quartet, the first brass band, and the first football team at Wiley. He later established the first teacher-training school for African Americans in Louisiana.

Who was Thelma Dewitty, and what distinction did she achieve?

Thelma Dewitty, a Wiley alumna from the class of 1941, became the first African American to teach in the Seattle Public Schools.

What significant role did Richard E. Holmes play in higher education history?

Richard E. Holmes was a physician who transferred from Wiley University after his sophomore year to become the first African American to matriculate at Mississippi State University.

Who is Opal Lee, and what is her connection to Juneteenth?

Opal Lee is an activist recognized as the 'Grandmother of Juneteenth'. She is an alumna of Wiley University.

What was Walter McAfee's contribution in the field of astrophysics?

Walter McAfee, a Wiley alumnus from the class of 1934, was an astrophysicist who worked on Project Diana with the United States Army Signal Corps.

What legal case was Heman Marion Sweatt, a Wiley alumnus, involved in?

Heman Marion Sweatt, from the class of 1934, was the plaintiff in the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case *Sweatt v. Painter* (1950), which addressed racial segregation in higher education. He also helped found Texas Southern University.

Who was Lois Towles, and what was her renown?

Lois Towles, a Wiley alumna from the class of 1933, was an internationally renowned concert pianist.

What is the significance of Henrietta Bell Wells in relation to the Wiley debate team?

Henrietta Bell Wells was the first female member of the Wiley College debate team, and her participation was featured in the 2007 movie 'The Great Debaters'.

What is the purpose of the 'Authority control' section at the end of the article?

The 'Authority control' section provides links to external databases, such as ISNI, that help identify and manage information about Wiley University, ensuring consistency and aiding in data organization.

What is the motto of Wiley University?

The motto of Wiley University is 'Go Forth Inspired'.

What is the former name of the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) that Wiley University competes in?

The HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) was formerly known as the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC).

What is the approximate number of academic staff at Wiley University?

Wiley University has approximately 46 academic staff members.

What is the total number of staff at Wiley University?

Wiley University employs a total of 163 staff members.

Wiley University Wiki: Wiley University: A Beacon of Learning and Legacy

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Introduction

Historic Foundation

Established in 1873 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, Wiley University (formerly Wiley College) stands as a private, historically black institution in Marshall, Texas. It holds the distinction of being the oldest predominantly black college west of the Mississippi River, a testament to its enduring commitment to education and opportunity.

Academic Accessibility

Wiley operates on an open admissions policy, ensuring broad access to higher education. A significant majority of its students, approximately 96%, receive financial aid, underscoring the university's dedication to making education attainable for all aspiring scholars.

Evolving Identity

In November 2023, Wiley College officially reverted to its original name, Wiley University, coinciding with the introduction of new graduate programs. This strategic rebranding reflects its growth and expanded academic offerings, building upon its rich historical foundation.

A Journey Through Time

Founding and Early Years

Founded in 1873 by Bishop Isaac Wiley and certified in 1882 by the Freedman's Aid Society, Wiley began as both a college and high school. Its initial campus was located in south Marshall, with a later move to its current seventy-acre site in downtown Marshall in 1880. The institution's early faculty and staff were primarily church missionaries.

Resilience and Growth

Despite facing challenges, such as a significant fire in 1906 that destroyed five buildings, Wiley demonstrated remarkable resilience. Rebuilding efforts were undertaken, bolstered by resources like a Carnegie Foundation grant secured by President Matthew Winfred Dogan, which helped fund the construction of the president's home and a library that served the entire Marshall community until 1974.

Academic Milestones

The university conferred its first Bachelor of Arts degree in 1888 to Henry B. Pemberton. By 1929, the institution had phased out its high school program, focusing exclusively on higher education and adopting the name Wiley College. The transition to Wiley University in 2023 marks another significant chapter in its academic evolution.

Catalyst for Change

Texas Civil Rights Movement

Wiley University played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement within Texas. Students from Wiley, alongside those from Bishop College, initiated some of the earliest sit-ins in the state. These protests, held in the rotunda of the Old Harrison County Courthouse, were a courageous stand against segregation in public facilities.

Leadership and Activism

Alumnus James Farmer, a graduate of Wiley, emerged as a central figure in the national Civil Rights Movement. As one of the "Big Four," alongside Roy Wilkins, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Whitney M. Young Jr., Farmer was instrumental in organizing the foundational sit-ins and Freedom Rides across the United States, demonstrating the profound impact of Wiley's graduates.

The Art of Persuasion

A Legacy of Debate Excellence

Wiley University's debate team boasts a storied history of success, famously losing only one debate out of 75 over a 15-year period under the guidance of Professor Melvin B. Tolson. This remarkable achievement garnered national attention, including a significant 1935 debate against the University of Southern California's top-ranked team.

Inspiring "The Great Debaters"

The team's triumphs inspired the 2007 film "The Great Debaters," directed by and starring Denzel Washington. Washington's subsequent $1 million donation revitalized the debate program, enabling it to re-establish its competitive edge. The team continues to carry the "Great Debaters" name, upholding its tradition of excellence.

National Recognition

In 2014, Wiley's debate team achieved a historic milestone by winning first place at the Pi Kappa Delta Comprehensive National Tournament, the largest in the organization's history. This victory marked the first national speech and debate title secured by a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). Wiley also spearheaded the establishment of the first HBCU National Speech and Debate League.

Campus and Environment

Location and Size

Wiley University is situated in Marshall, Texas, a rural setting that encompasses a 134-acre campus. This environment provides a focused academic atmosphere for its students.

Enrollment and Affiliation

As of recent data, the university enrolls approximately 636 students, supported by 46 academic staff and a total of 163 employees. Wiley is affiliated with the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and the International Association of Methodist-related Schools, Colleges, and Universities (IAMSCU).

Financial Support

The university's endowment stands at $7.4 million. With an open admissions policy, Wiley ensures that nearly all students (around 96%) receive some form of financial aid, reflecting its commitment to accessibility.

Distinguished Individuals

Notable Faculty

Wiley University has been home to influential educators and scholars who have shaped both the institution and their respective fields.

Name	Department	Notability
Melvin B. Tolson	English	Noted poet and English professor, renowned debate coach.
James L. Farmer, Sr.		First black Texan to earn a PhD; professor at Wiley.
Fred T. Long	Athletics	Athletic director and head football coach.
Harry Long	Biology	Head of biology department and assistant football coach.
Anderson Delano Macklin	Fine Art	Visual artist, professor, art historian, and author.
Reuben Shannon Lovinggood	Latin and Greek	Classical scholar and former president of Samuel Huston College.

Notable Alumni

The university's alumni network includes influential figures across various sectors, contributing significantly to society.

Name	Class Year	Notability
R. E. Brown	1899	Organized Wiley's first male quartet, brass band, and football team; founded first teacher-training school for African Americans in Louisiana.
Thelma Dewitty	1941	First African American to teach in the Seattle Public Schools.
James Farmer	1938	Prominent U.S. civil rights leader.
Richard E. Holmes		Physician who became Mississippi State University's first black matriculant.
Conrad O. Johnson		Influential music educator.
Opal Lee		Activist, recognized as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth."
Mike Lewis	1980	Professional NFL player.
L. D. Livingston		Negro league baseball outfielder.
Ernest Lyon		Minister, former U.S. Ambassador to Liberia, and founder of the Maryland Industrial and Agricultural Institute for Colored Youths.
Walter McAfee	1934	Astrophysicist involved in Project Diana with the U.S. Army Signal Corps.
Henry Cecil McBay	1934	Chemist and college professor.
Willie Pearson Jr.	1968	Sociologist, college professor, and author.
Oliver Randolph	1904	New Jersey lawyer, politician, and civil rights advocate.
C. O. Simpkins, Sr.		Member of the Louisiana House of Representatives; retired dentist.
Bill Spiller		Golfer who challenged PGA segregation policies.
Heman Marion Sweatt	1934	Plaintiff in the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case Sweatt v. Painter; co-founder of Texas Southern University.
Bubbha Thomas	1961	Jazz musician and educator in Houston.
Lee Wilder Thomas		Prominent African-American businessman in the oil industry.
Lois Towles	1933	Internationally renowned concert pianist.
Henrietta Bell Wells		First female member of the famed debate team, featured in "The Great Debaters."
James Wheaton	1945	Actor, director, and educator.
Richard Williams		Jazz trumpeter.

Athletic Endeavors

The Wildcats

Wiley University's athletic teams are known as the Wildcats. The college actively participates in intercollegiate sports, competing under the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

Conference Affiliations

Currently, Wiley competes in the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC), formerly the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC). Previously, the Wildcats were members of the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC) and were founding members of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).

Sports Offered

Wiley offers ten intercollegiate varsity teams. Men's sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, soccer, and track & field. Women's sports encompass basketball, cross country, soccer, track & field, and volleyball.

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References

Wiley College â A Place Where Every Student Can Succeed, Dallas News

The Chicago Defender "Wiley Coach Drops Dead in Football Classic" December 15, 1945 pages 1 & 5 and The Chicago Defender "Harry Long Joins Wiley Grid Staff" July 13, 1929 page 9

James Wheaton at IMDb

A full list of references for this article are available at the Wiley University Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional academic consultation or advice. Always refer to official university resources and consult with qualified educational professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Wiley University

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Introduction 🎓

🏛️ Historic Foundation

🌟 Academic Accessibility

🔄 Evolving Identity

A Journey Through Time ⏳

📜 Founding and Early Years

🔥 Resilience and Growth

🎓 Academic Milestones

Catalyst for Change ✊

⚖️ Texas Civil Rights Movement

🗣️ Leadership and Activism

The Art of Persuasion 🗣️

🏆 A Legacy of Debate Excellence

🎬 Inspiring "The Great Debaters"

🏅 National Recognition

Campus and Environment 🌳

📍 Location and Size

📊 Enrollment and Affiliation

💰 Financial Support

Distinguished Individuals 👥

🧑‍🏫 Notable Faculty

🎓 Notable Alumni

Athletic Endeavors 🏆

🐾 The Wildcats

🤝 Conference Affiliations

🏅 Sports Offered

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

Historic Foundation

Academic Accessibility

Evolving Identity

A Journey Through Time

Founding and Early Years

Resilience and Growth

Academic Milestones

Catalyst for Change

Texas Civil Rights Movement

Leadership and Activism

The Art of Persuasion

A Legacy of Debate Excellence

Inspiring "The Great Debaters"

National Recognition

Campus and Environment

Location and Size

Enrollment and Affiliation

Financial Support

Distinguished Individuals

Notable Faculty

Notable Alumni

Athletic Endeavors

The Wildcats

Conference Affiliations

Sports Offered

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice