Thurgood Marshall College Fund President Serves as Fall 2024 Commencement Speaker

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Fayetteville State University is honored to announce the Thurgood Marshall College Fund’s President and CEO Harry L. Williams, Ph.D., will deliver its fall 2024 commencement address. The ceremony takes place Friday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. in Felton J. Capel Arena. 

Williams, who leads the nation’s largest organization representing the Black college community, will speak to more than 487 undergraduate and 102 graduate and professional students. Fayetteville State University is one of the 53 member institutions comprising the TMCF, which supports public Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Predominantly Black Institutions.

Under his visionary leadership, TMCF has experienced unparalleled growth, witnessing a remarkable revenue expansion exceeding 250%. His strategic direction has elevated TMCF to not only serve as the premier representative of the HBCU community but also as a thought leader in equity, access, and inclusion.

Williams’ higher education experience began as student in UNC System at Appalachian State University, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He went on to Tennessee State University to earn his doctorate.

His illustrious career includes senior positions at the University of North Carolina General Administration, Appalachian State University, and North Carolina A&T State University. He also serves as President Emeritus of Delaware State University. He has received recognition for contributions to higher education with numerous awards and accolades.

Williams recently visited FSU during the summer as a keynote speaker for the TMCF’s SOAR program that brings high school students to HBCU’s to expose them to higher education opportunities and assists them with planning their post high school pathway for a successful transition to college or the workforce.

Williams is a devoted family man. Married to Dr. Robin S. Williams, they take pride in their two accomplished sons, Austin, and Gavin, both Howard University graduates. Gavin, now a second-year law student at Southern University Law Center, carries on the family’s legacy of academic excellence. Dr. Williams is also a doting grandfather to Porter Rae, the daughter of Austin and his wife Reagan.

Additional FSU commencement and graduate information is available online, including the live stream when it becomes available. Tickets are required for guest to attend commencement at Capel Arena. Media credentials for the ceremony are available upon request.