Virginia Union University Announces Opening Convocation Speaker Dr. Melva K. Wallace

Richmond, VA — Virginia Union University is proud to announce that Dr. Melva K. Wallace, the 7th President and CEO of Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, Texas, will serve as the Opening Convocation speaker on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM in the historic Allix B. James Chapel. Dr. Wallace brings over 20 years of higher education leadership to the podium and is widely recognized as a national advocate for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Dr. Wallace is a Presidential Leadership Scholar who has studied under three U.S. Presidents and is the recipient of numerous awards, including the ATHENA Award, recognition by Diverse Issues in Higher Education as one of the top 25 dynamic women in higher education, and inclusion in the Austin Business Journal’s Texas 100 Most Influential Professionals to Watch. Her innovative work includes co-teaching the nationally recognized course The Business of Trap Music with Grammy-winning rapper Clifford “T.I.” Harris. Her deep commitment to HBCUs is evidenced by her founding role with the Higher Education Leadership Foundation, which has trained over 500 HBCU leaders, many of whom now serve as presidents, provosts, and deans across the nation. “Dr. Wallace is a bold voice for HBCUs and a powerful example of servant leadership in higher education,” said Dr. Hakim J. Lucas, President and CEO of Virginia Union University. “Her story, her vision, and her voice are exactly what we want our students to hear as we begin a new academic year grounded in faith, excellence, and purpose.” 

Dr. Wallace is a three-time HBCU graduate, as she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication, a Master of Arts in Public Administration from Grambling State University, and a Ph.D. in Urban Higher Education from Jackson State University. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and continues to serve on numerous boards and community organizations nationally.