Leadership and legacy: listen in
L. Douglas Wilder, Virginia’s 66th Governor, and the nation's first elected African-American governor, shares his experiences and reflections on current events and historic milestones. He explores the future of democracy and the call for authentic leadership to meet the needs of the people. From perennial to emerging issues, Governor Wilder offers guidance and perspective to help navigate our nation's most pressing challenges.
He is joined by Susan T. Gooden, dean of the Wilder School, a globally recognized expert in social equity. Dean Gooden is an elected fellow of the congressionally chartered National Academy of Public Administration and is past president of the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) and past-president of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA).
Episode Library
Dean Susan Gooden and Governor L. Douglas Wilder delve into a pivotal discussion during Black History Month: the imperative for Black leadership in upholding equity and fairness, especially in light of the rollback of affirmative action and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives. Reflecting on historical figures like Frederick Douglass, W.E.B. Du Bois, Mary McLeod Bethune, Malcolm X, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., they explore the emergence of contemporary leaders and the roles of organizations such as the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus and the Congressional Black Caucus in today's evolving landscape. The conversation also highlights strategies for individuals and voters to advocate for policies promoting fairness and equity, and identifies key legislative and policy battles on the horizon for civil rights and equality.
Dean Susan Gooden and Governor L. Douglas Wilder dive into President Donald Trump's early actions in his second term. They chat about his executive orders, like the controversial move to end birthright citizenship—a decision that's already facing legal pushback and has been temporarily halted by federal judges. They also touch on the pardons granted to individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol events and the rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives. The big question they tackle: Are these moves genuinely for the public good or more about personal agendas? Plus, they explore how a Republican-led federal government might influence Virginia's upcoming gubernatorial election, pondering the ripple effects of national politics on state leadership choices.
Dean Susan Gooden and Governor L. Douglas Wilder reflect on the life and legacy of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, renowned for his non-violent opposition to apartheid and his advocacy for economic sanctions against South Africa, efforts that earned him the Nobel Peace Prize. Governor Wilder shares personal anecdotes from his friendship with Archbishop Tutu, discussing their initial meeting during a historic trade mission and subsequent visits, including Tutu's stay at the Virginia Executive Mansion. Their deep conversations on civil rights, consensus-building, and the fight against racism offer listeners a unique insight into the bond between two leaders dedicated to justice and equality.
Dean Susan Gooden and Governor L. Douglas Wilder dive into the January 2025 Commonwealth Poll's insights on Virginia's upcoming gubernatorial race. They discuss the historic nature of the election, with both major parties nominating female candidates: Democrat Abigail Spanberger and Republican Winsome Earle-Sears. The conversation explores factors contributing to Spanberger's early lead, the potential impact of electing Virginia's first female governor, and the dynamics of a hypothetical Senate race between incumbent Democrat Mark Warner and Governor Glenn Youngkin. They also address Virginians' concerns about the cost of living and the strong public support for state funding of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), as highlighted in the poll. The episode concludes with advice for candidates on connecting with an electorate experiencing "election exhaustion."
L. Douglas Wilder, Virginia’s 66th Governor and the first African-American elected as governor in the United States, explores race in America and our progress towards equality. Wilder will also discuss his ongoing advocacy for equal funding and better support of our Historically Black Colleges and Universities. >>Listen on SoundCloud
The 2024 National elections was filled with special interests including election fraud complaints, criminal trials, ageism, as well as, economic and social policies. L. Douglas Wilder, Virginia’s 66th Governor and the first African-American elected as governor in the United States, describes what it means to be a strong leader and how we can help build the next generation of public servants. >>Listen on SoundCloud
In 1990, Virginia Governor L. Douglas Wilder made the decision to order state agencies and universities to divest themselves of any investments in South Africa due to its policy of apartheid. The Commonwealth of Virginia became the first Southern state to take such action. In this edition, Wilder discusses why the decision was necessary, if there was any resistance, and the impact both in the United States and in South Africa. >>Listen on SoundCloud
About our namesake: L. Douglas Wilder, 66th Governor of Virginia
As the nation’s first African-American governor, L. Douglas Wilder shattered historic barriers and continues to inspire and advance authentic, people-first governance.
The Wilder School embodies the values of independent thought and public service championed by Governor Wilder, who brings that commitment as a distinguished professor of public policy. We create leaders — no matter the subject area — who are prepared to respond to any challenge.
In the words of Governor Wilder, “Leadership means to lead. You don’t fill a category, you’re not filling a slot. You’re not cut any slack. To the contrary, you’ve got to measure up.”