We were lucky to welcome 10 Wily Scholars and alums to the 2024 Ilene Beal Speaker Series. Three were scheduled to speak—Eric, Jay, and Nicki. But as Wily alum Joel sat at his table, he felt moved to say his piece too. When the speakers concluded he made his way up to the front of the room.
“The Wily Network is not just any program. As you journey with the program they begin to substitute as family. I went to college without family support and faced many challenges with Wily right by my side. Every time I faced a health challenge or hit a wall, Wily would help me overcome all obstacles. My favorite moment in the journey with Wily was being able to see the end and its resolve. Being able to see my coach wave as I crossed the stage made me feel at peace. I believe if it wasn’t for The Wily Network I would have lost hope long ago but they remind people that we are all just human and that if we work together we can accomplish anything.”
Thank you, Joel! Your words fill us with gratitude and we are so happy you stay active in the Wily Pack.
