WSSU alumnus and global leadership strategist, Byron Washington, to deliver fall convocation address
Winston-Salem State University will welcome back distinguished alumnus Dr. Byron Washington as the keynote speaker for its 2025 Fall Convocation on Friday, Oct. 17, at 9:45 a.m. at the Benton Convention Center.
Washington, a 2005 graduate of WSSU with a bachelor’ degree in business administration, is a leadership strategist, management consultant and life coach with more than 15 years of experience helping organizations and leaders navigate change, growth and transformation.
He serves as one of six crisis management trainers for the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Diplomatic Security, where he designs and delivers programs that strengthen leadership, enhance crisis preparedness, and refine contingency planning for U.S. consulates and embassies across the globe. His regional portfolio includes the Middle East, South Asia and Central Asia.
“Dr. Washington represents the very best of what it means to be a Ram,” said Chancellor Bonita J. Brown. “His career exemplifies the power of purpose-driven leadership and the global impact that a WSSU education can inspire. We are honored to welcome him home to share his wisdom and experience with our students.”
Prior to his current role, Washington served as a special investigator with the Office of Diplomatic Security and worked for Deloitte & Touche LLP in its Audit and Enterprise Risk Division, leading projects in business process improvement and organizational transformation.
An ordained minister and columnist for "The Christian Recorder," Washington has spent more than 16 years in ministry and mentoring emerging leaders. His forthcoming book, based on his doctoral research, explores strategies for overcoming pastoral burnout and fostering resilience in ministry leadership.
Washington holds a Doctorate in Education in organizational change and leadership from the University of Southern California, and a master’s degree in public affairs from Princeton University. He resides in Los Angeles with his family.
