Lawrence Douglas Wilder

L. Douglas Wilder, born January 17, 1931, is a former Governor of Virginia (1990-1994) and currently serves as an Adjunct Professor at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University. He holds the historic distinction of being the first African American elected governor of a U.S. state.

Wilder earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Virginia Union University and a Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law. His military service during the Korean War included combat at the Battle of Pork Chop Hill, where he earned the Bronze Star Medal.

His academic focus centers on Political Science, Public Administration, American Government, African American Politics, and Leadership, drawing directly from his pioneering political career and commitment to public service innovation. His work emphasizes governance models and policy implementation in diverse societies.

Wilder's honors include:

• Spingarn Medal (1990) from the NAACP
• Harold Washington Award (2004) from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
• Adam Clayton Powell Award (1987) from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
• Honorary Doctorate from Arizona State University (2004)

While specific academic advisees are not documented, Wilder has mentored through his political offices and university role. He secured grants for the United States National Slavery Museum initiative, though it faced financial collapse and bankruptcy in 2011 due to unpaid taxes and fundraising shortfalls.

Wilder remains active in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs community, participating in events and advisory roles. He joined Governor Glenn Youngkin's transition team in 2021 alongside former Republican governors, demonstrating bipartisan engagement despite his Democratic background.