Introducing WPU’s Commencement and Baccalaureate Speakers
Two talented and intriguing people will share messages with William Peace University graduates this week at the Baccalaureate and Commencement ceremonies.
Commencement
Donald Thompson, a CEO, speaker, investor, advisor, entrepreneur, and executive coach, will be the Commencement Speaker Saturday. Thompson brings a wealth of experience and expertise to any organization. As a Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) and CEO and Co-founder of The Diversity Movement, he is passionate about driving cultural transformation and delivering solid returns for employees and shareholders.
Under his leadership, The Diversity Movement has earned numerous accolades, including Inc. Magazine’s 2021 Best in Business List in DE&I Advocacy and Fast Company’s 2022 “world-changing ideas.” In addition, Thompson is a three-time Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies winner, named to the Forbes Next 1000 List and the Business North Carolina Power 100 List.
Thompson serves on 12 boards across various industries, including marketing, health, and finance. Thompson is also the author of the book Underestimated and hosts the podcast “High Octane Leadership in an Empathetic World,” both of which provide valuable insights for business leaders. With his competitive learning mindset, Thompson delivers actionable insights and is the perfect partner for anyone looking to take their business to the next level.
WPU’s Commencement Ceremony will occur on Saturday, May 6, 2023.
Baccalaureate
Rev. Lisa Yebuah is the Lead Pastor of the Southeast Raleigh Table, a United Methodist worshiping community near downtown Raleigh. What fuels her life in ministry is seeing people become their best selves and, in turn, seeing the world become equitable and collectively marked by liberation. People are her passion; curating experiences for individuals to live abundantly and at home within themselves is her vocational commitment.
Yebuah is also deeply invested in the Raleigh community and works alongside organizations engaged in advocacy for affordable housing, a living wage, equity in public education, and reversing the effects of food deserts. For the last two years, her energy has shifted primarily to efforts focused on property tax relief for longtime, fixed-income homeowners who live in Raleigh’s historically Black neighborhoods.
She currently serves on the Board of Advisors for the Southeast Raleigh YMCA. She was recently recognized with a Community Impact award by the Middle Eastern Province of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and the Northeastern Region of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
WPU’s Baccalaureate Ceremony will occur on Friday, May 5, 2023, at Holy Trinity Anglican Church.