Rufus L. Wilson’s life is an inspiring testament to perseverance, philanthropy, and love. Born on October 2, 1960, in Bayview, Virginia, Rufus grew up in the vibrant town of Avon Park, Florida, where he developed a deep love for education. The defining moment of his youth came when he received a scholarship to attend Bethune-Cookman University, an achievement that would set the course for a future filled with purpose. His pursuit of knowledge culminated in a degree in Education, with a minor in Health Education, and he would later become a staunch supporter of the institution that helped shape his future.

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Rufus’s professional journey is equally impactful. For 36 years, he served as a mail processor and group leader at the U.S. Postal Service. However, it is his work beyond the postal service that sets him apart. As the CEO of the Wanda and Janice Wilson Foundation, he has built a legacy that is as much about love as it is about education. This foundation, which he co-founded in honor of his late wife Janice, has raised over $250,000 for scholarships and three endowments, ensuring that countless students receive the support they need to pursue higher education. His influence extended to his leadership role as a former member of the Board of Trustees at Bethune-Cookman University, where he spearheaded major fundraising efforts, including the establishment of endowments for the university.

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The tragic loss of Janice in 2014 after 32 years of marriage was a pivotal moment in Rufus’s life. Yet, instead of succumbing to grief, he channeled his pain into something larger than himself. The Wanda and Janice Wilson Foundation was born from his desire to honor her memory and continue their shared vision of empowering students to achieve academic success. Through the foundation, Rufus has provided scholarships to students across multiple institutions, ensuring that the legacy of both Janice and his own commitment to education endures. The foundation’s annual Gala, a sold-out event attracting 300 attendees each year, is one of the many ways he celebrates and sustains this vision.