Celebrating 50 Years

In 2017, Wright State University celebrated 50 years of being an innovative leader in affordable and accessible higher education. Please enjoy our unique timeline as well as stories and photographs of the milestone events and inspirational people who have helped make Wright State such a special place.

Boonshoft School of Medicine holds graduation ceremony on May 10

After four or more years of intense study and specialized training, 96 medical students in the Boonshoft School of Medicine class of 2018 received their M.D. degrees during the school’s graduation ceremony on May 10.

Susan Edwards of Appalachian State named provost of Wright State University

Susan Edwards, vice provost for faculty affairs at Appalachian State University, will join Wright State as executive vice president for academic affairs and provost on July 30.

Stories

Mark A. Winters

Alumnus

I began at Wright State in 1979, and finished my education degree in 1984. I met my wife, Melissa Fails. Through Army ROTC, I had a successful 26-year career. My only regret is not walking in a graduation ceremony due to Army training; I might return someday and do that!

Roni Wilson-Vinson

Alumna

I was active in many student organizations. They became a lab environment for me to witness in real life what I was learning in my communication classes. I manage a corporate university for Saba Software. Every day I use skills I gained and it made me a better leader.

Leroy L. Long III, Ph.D.

Alumnus, 2008

Thanks to my Wright STEPP Scholarship, I earned a B.S. in mechanical engineering debt-free. I received invaluable mentorship from administrators like Ruby Mawasha, developed leadership skills through clubs like the National Society of Black Engineers, and gained work experience at Toyota through organizations like INROADS.

Dawana "Dee" Thomas

Alumnus

Wright State taught me about diversity. I remember being one of the only African Americans in some of my classes—that opened my eyes to a world I now know how to embrace. I learned leadership. I went from working on campus to a H.S. principal that serves 2,000 students.

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