Continuing the Legacy: DSU names Wilma Mishoe as its 11th President

Late Friday, the Delaware State Hornets named Wilma Mishoe as their 11th President effective July 1st. Mishoe is the daughter of former president, Luna Mishoe and is the university's first female board chair. The once interim president for the university spoke on fulfilling her late father's legacy. In an interview she spoke about being on cloud nine and the love she has for her students.” I’m up there in the clouds somewhere right now. I think it's been less than an hour since they made that announcement, and I’m not numb, but I’m floating in the clouds right now. I am honored, but it's also an awesome, awesome responsibility. I love working with the students, they are what gets me up in the morning and put a smile on my face.”

Mishoe has climbed the ladder since coming to Delaware State in 2015. In August 2017, she made history in becoming the first woman elected to the Board of Trustees chairwoman along with Dr. Devona Williams who was first woman vice chair. After accomplishing this milestone, she became the interim president. Her voice was dominant and she advocated for students. Having open discussions about changing school policy, athletics, resident life, classroom policy, everything about campus life. Mishoe made sure improvements were happening on campus. During the Hornets 2018 commencement ceremony, Gov. John Carney signed legislation to help the Inspire Scholarship, which offers assistance to incoming freshman to attend DSU. Prior to working at DSU, Mishoe was the acting president at Wilberforce University in Ohio. She also worked at Delaware Technical and Community College and retired in 2010. Early in her education career, she served as the dean of students and director of financial aid at then Wilmington College for five years (1975-1980). From 1994-1999 was a member of the Dover Capital School Board and served as its president from 1997-1999.

Students and administration are excited about Mishoe’s permanent stay. She has traveled with students to show support in conferences, makes sure to be interactive with everyone campus and keeps everyone involved in decisions made for the university. When her father was the president (1960-1987) it was time for growth not only for the university but in the country as well. In present day, Mishoe is facing some of the same issues in the country her father once dealt with 31 years ago. Since childhood, she has been bred to lead and help children in anyway she can.