Momentum Gaining At Nation's Oldest HBCU

WILBERFORCE, Ohio, Aug. 28, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Wilberforce University, the country's oldest historically black private university, today announced new leadership for its Board of Trustees.  Mark Wilson, CEO of eVerifile, will now lead the Board of Trustees as Chairman of the Board, while John Miller, CEO and president of Denny's Corporation, becomes vice chairman of the Board.  The nomination and appointment of Wilson and Miller followed a rigorous review of standards, considerations and competencies in categories including, but not limited to, finance and budgeting, legal matters, fundraising and philanthropy. 

"We are thrilled with the announcement of new leadership for our Board of Trustees and have great confidence in these two highly qualified men as we push forward with our 'Force of Change' strategy," says Interim President Dr. Wilma Mishoe. "Both Mr. Wilson and Mr. Miller have proven leadership experience in their respective industries leading two very successful companies, and we know that their knowledge and senior leadership will sustain and advance Wilberforce University's mission, traditions, values and reputation."  

Wilson currently leads eVerifile, a leader in workforce and contractor screening solutions, and is a successful entrepreneur who has previously guided startups focused on providing business solutions to enterprise clients.  Wilson and his companies have received numerous national awards including the prestigious Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2010.

"As a Wilberforce alumnus, I look forward to supporting my alma mater and ushering this great University into a new, progressive and prosperous era," states Wilson.  "I am enthusiastic for the opportunity to serve as a public advocate and ambassador for this University that prepared me for success as a entrepreneur and a life dedicated to the service of others.

Miller is currently responsible for leading the strategic direction of Denny's Corporation (NASDAQ; DENN), the franchisor and operator of one of America's largest franchised full-service restaurant chains.  He is an accomplished restaurant industry veteran, with more than 30 years of restaurant operations and management experience.

"The success of Wilberforce University is extremely important, not just as the nation's oldest HBCU, but as a storied University known for academic achievement and producing a cadre of distinguished alumni," says Miller.  "On behalf of our board and leadership, we look forward to supporting the mission of this distinguished University".

Force of Change Continues

Wilberforce launched its "Force of Change" strategy at the National Alumni Conference in July, and the initiative continues to take shape with the new Board of Trustees leadership and a spirit of freethinking, entrepreneurship and purpose. 

To that end, It was also announced by The Washington Monthly, Wilberforce University is one of the top 50 Baccalaureate colleges in the nation, coming in at number 39. The ranking among baccalaureate institutions is based on social mobility (recruiting and graduating low-income students), research (producing cutting-edge scholarship and PhDs) and service (encouraging students to give something back to their country).

In the coming months, Wilberforce University will continue to institute change throughout its storied campus including a new president, a renewed sense of involvement from stakeholders, revision of fiscal responsibility, modification of facilities, a new website and innovation in academics and student life.

About Wilberforce University

Wilberforce University was founded in 1856 on a relatively radical principle for mid-19^th Century America: to provide African-Americans, many who were fleeing slavery, with a quality, advanced education. It was a progressive concept that has evolved to inspire its current students to become innovators and entrepreneurs. Known today as the first predominantly African-American private university in the nation, it welcomes students of all faiths, races, colors, and national and ethnic origins. The school is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and is affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church as well as many collegiate organizations and associations, including the United Negro College Fund. For more information, visit www.wilberforce.edu.

SOURCE Wilberforce University