40 years later, Governor Wilder was recognized by the General Assembly as Virginia’s first African American lieutenant governor. Coinciding with his 94th birthday, the day also saw the launch of a multimedia online library showcasing his expansive career. 

On Friday, Jan. 17, L. Douglas Wilder, the 66th governor of Virginia, was honored by Virginia lawmakers during a special center aisle ceremony at the Virginia Capitol building. The General Assembly introduced two resolutions commemorating the 40th anniversary of his inauguration as lieutenant governor of the Commonwealth.

“It's an honor to be recognized for serving the people of the Commonwealth. I recognize the need for elected officials to connect with the people. I gained a great deal of inspiration and motivation when I watched the proceedings in the House of Delegates and Senate during the center-aisle presentations. Together, we can deliver that which is ‘best for the people of Virginia.’”

– Governor L. Douglas Wilder

The lawmakers expounded on the groundbreaking milestone that helped transform what could be possible in state and national politics. Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears, State Senators Lamont Bagby and Ryan McDougle, Delegates Betsy Carr and Luke Torian, and House Speaker Don Scott addressed the floor during the ceremony.

“As we recognize the 35th anniversary of his historic election as governor and the 40th anniversary of his historic election as lieutenant governor, it’s clear that Governor Wilder’s legacy not only includes astonishing firsts but is also characterized by timeless and respected relevance,” said Susan Gooden, dean of the Wilder School.

Introducing the Wilder Digital Collection

For Wilder, it was a whirlwind day that coincided with his 94th birthday, which he celebrated at his alma mater, Virginia Union University. The gathered unveiled the Governor Wilder Digital Collection, a digital repository highlighting his civic, military and political career from the late 1950s through 2009. The multimedia collection includes papers, photographs and negatives, audio cassettes and video tapes, awards, and memorabilia. 

“With the launch of the Governor L. Douglas Wilder Digital Collection, his voluminous contributions are accessible worldwide so that current and future generations can learn from his unparalleled and visionary leadership," Gooden shared.

The project represents a collaboration between the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs and Virginia Union University. The project was supported by a three-year appropriation from the Virginia General Assembly to support the Wilder School Research Institute for Social Equity (RISE). 

"I want to thank those who came to share with me in my 94th birthday,” he shared. “It coincides with the birthday of many others, like Muhammed Ali and James Earl Jones, as well as coming two days after the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. This is really about the opportunities afforded to us by the people. It demonstrates that you don't stop. I won't stop at 94, and I'll continue to be a voice in representation of and support for all Virginians."

“Governor Wilder’s 94th birthday is more than a celebration of years; it’s a reflection on an exceptional life that redefined the possibilities of public service. The General Assembly resolutions honoring him in the House and Senate speak to a career that shattered barriers and set new standards for leadership for the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world.”

– Susan Gooden

70 years of public service — and counting

Wilder, a distinguished professor at the school that bears his name, celebrates a public service career spanning more than 70 years. He became the United States’ first African-American elected governor, leading Virginia from 1990 to 1994. Wilder was commended for his fiscal management and balancing the state budget during difficult economic times. Financial World magazine ranked Virginia as the best-managed state in the U.S. for two consecutive years under his administration.

He served as lieutenant governor from 1986 to 1990 and a Virginia state senator from 1969 to 1985. For eight years, he persisted in passing legislation to declare an official state holiday for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Wilder was the driving force in appointing black judges to serve on the bench and facilitated opportunities to expand gender diversity in state jobs.  

As an army sergeant, he earned the Bronze Star for heroism in ground combat in Korea. Under the education barriers of segregation, Wilder graduated from Howard University Law School and graduated from Virginia Union University with a B.S. degree in Chemistry. He is a lifelong proponent of historically Black colleges and universities. 

Today, he continues to be a champion for the people and remains highly active in local politics. He regularly releases posts on his website, Wilder Visions, exploring and engaging in key issues affecting Virginians. He frequently conducts radio and video interviews with the media.

He remains active in the classroom, speaking with VCU students and sharing his lived experiences of the need for authentic, people-first leadership. Governor Wilder hosts the annual Wilder Symposium, most recently presenting “Elections 2024: The Importance of Listening to the People.” 

At 94, his longevity and living legacy inspire students to engage in public service by “demanding what is right and criticizing what is wrong.”