WFU remembers General Colin L. Powell

Wake Forest University is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of General Colin L. Powell.

General Powell was the University’s 2004 Commencement speaker. In his first commencement address as U.S. Secretary of State, Powell interspersed national policy with advice for Wake Forest’s 1,597 graduates. Powell said the impulse to do the right thing should apply to both individuals and nations.

“When people are suffering, and you can help them, you help them,” Powell said. “You act. You do what’s right. That’s the American way.”

During the pandemic, Powell participated in a virtual conversation with former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright in March 2021 as part of the University’s Face to Face Speaker Forum. He and Albright were scheduled to appear in person at Wake Forest on Nov. 9, 2021. Updates will be shared on the Face to Face Speaker Forum website.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with General Powell’s family, friends and those who served with him. We are grateful for General Powell’s service to our country and his example of leading with character and integrity,” said Wake Forest President Susan R. Wente.