The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University celebrated the graduation of 149 students this past Saturday, marking a milestone moment for a class shaped by complexity, uncertainty and a shared commitment to public service.

Held before a full audience of family members, friends, faculty and staff, the ceremony recognized graduates from across the Wilder School’s undergraduate and graduate programs as they officially joined the school’s alumni community. The celebration reflected both individual achievement and the collective effort that supports students pursuing careers rooted in public leadership and civic engagement.

Student speaker Nonso Akunwafor, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Studies, offered remarks that resonated deeply with the lived experiences of the graduating class. Rather than framing the college journey as a linear path, Akunwafor spoke about what it means to “thrive in chaos,” navigating uncertainty, balancing competing responsibilities and meeting moments that test one’s resolve with purpose and persistence.

His reflections acknowledged the realities many students face while pursuing higher education, including academic pressure, work commitments and personal responsibilities. Through that lens, Akunwafor highlighted the adaptability and quiet determination that define Wilder School graduates and prepare them to lead in environments marked by complexity and change.

The ceremony’s keynote address was delivered by Governor L. Douglas Wilder, the nation’s first elected Black governor and the school’s namesake. With his signature blend of humor, historical perspective and moral clarity, Governor Wilder reminded graduates that leadership is not something to postpone.

“You are not the future,” he emphasized. “You are the present.”

Drawing on the U.S. Constitution, Virginia’s legacy of leadership and his own life’s journey, Governor Wilder underscored a central theme of civic responsibility. Government derives its authority from the people and leadership carries an obligation to serve all, not special interests. He challenged graduates to speak up, demand accountability and remain grounded in their values wherever their careers take them.

Governor Wilder also stressed that public service does not require holding elected office. Leadership, he noted, begins wherever one stands, in communities, organizations and institutions where decisions shape people’s lives.

Together, the student address and keynote reinforced the Wilder School’s mission to prepare graduates not only for public service careers, but for principled leadership in a democratic society.

The ceremony was made possible through the coordinated efforts of faculty, staff and students who supported the event throughout the day, ensuring a seamless and meaningful experience for graduates and their families. Their behind-the-scenes work reflected the collaborative spirit that defines the Wilder School community.

As the Class of 2025 moves forward, the ceremony served as both a celebration and a call to action, affirming that the skills developed at the Wilder School are designed for immediate impact in a world that demands thoughtful, values-driven leadership.

Photos from the ceremony are available in the Wilder School’s Flickr album.

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