Virginia Commonwealth University will host a symposium and a gala to commemorate the 25th anniversary of L. Douglas Wilder becoming the nation’s first popularly elected African-American governor.
Wilder, who was elected Virginia’s 66th governor on Nov. 7, 1989, has enjoyed a 45-year career in public service that includes a number of firsts: he is also the first African-American elected to the Virginia Senate since Reconstruction, the first African-American to head a Senate committee and the first African-American elected to statewide office in Virginia.
“The Enduring Legacy of L. Douglas Wilder” symposium will take place on Thursday, Dec. 4, from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. at the VCU University Student Commons Theater, 907 Floyd Ave. The symposium is free and open to the public.
The symposium will feature political experts, senior elected officials and media representatives who will host panel discussions. Topics include a review of the Virginia 1989 gubernatorial campaign and election, an assessment of the accomplishments during Wilder’s term in office and an analysis of the impact of Wilder’s election on Virginia and the nation.
“The 25th Anniversary Gala honoring L. Douglas Wilder” will take place on Thursday, Dec. 4, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the Richmond Marriot, 500 E. Broad St. Visit http://www.cvent.com/events/wi
Proceeds from the gala will support the establishment of scholarships at VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs.
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