Her Excellency Sharon Lady Wilson, K.C., Non‑Resident Ambassador of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to the United Mexican States and former President of the Senate of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas
Submitted by Public Affairs
MIAMI GARDENS, FL – Florida Memorial University (FMU) will celebrate its 2026 graduating class during its annual Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 8:00AM. in the FMU Wellness Center. This year’s ceremony, themed “Built on Legacy ~ Bound for Greatness”, will highlight the university’s enduring heritage and the achievements of its newest alumni.
“Each year, commencement reminds us that Florida Memorial University’s greatest legacy is its people—the inspired leaders who go out into the world to make a difference,” said FMU President William C. McCormick, Jr. “Our Class of 2026 embodies resilience, integrity, and purpose, carrying forward the values that have defined our institution for more than 145 years.”
The university will welcome Her Excellency Ambassador Sharon Lady Wilson KC., Non‑Resident Ambassador of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to the United Mexican States and former President of the Senate of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. She is by any measure, a nation builder whose distinguished career reflects decades of service to The Bahamas through education, law, public service, diplomacy, and faith. In 1999, Lady Wilson founded the law firm Sharon Wilson & Co., where she continues to serve as Senior Partner
Lady Wilson is a graduate of St. John’s College in New Providence, The Bahamas. She went on to pursue tertiary studies in the United States, earning a bachelor’s degree in literature from Florida Memorial University and later a master’s degree from the University of Miami.
During her tenure in the judiciary, Lady Wilson served across all areas of magisterial jurisdiction. She played a pioneering role in the development of specialized courts in The Bahamas, organizing and serving as the first Magistrate of the Magistrate’s Family Court. In the late 1980s, she was also appointed as the Magistrate in The Bahamas’ first specialized Drug Court, helping to advance a more responsive and rehabilitative approach within the justice system. Lady Wilson’s service to the nation has also extended into parliamentary leadership. In 2002, she became a Member of Parliament and went on to serve two terms as President of the Senate of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, making history as the only woman to date to have served twice in that role.
“It is a distinct honor to serve as the Commencement Speaker for Florida Memorial University’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony. I am deeply appreciative of the invitation and proud to join in celebrating the achievements of the graduating class, whose hard work, resilience, and determination reflect the very best of the FMU community.” — Her Excellency Ambassador Sharon Lady Wilson KC., Non‑Resident Ambassador of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to the United Mexican States and former President of the Senate of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
“Our theme, “Built on Legacy ~ Bound for Greatness”, perfectly reflects this milestone moment,” said Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jacqueline Hill. “Our graduates are prepared not only to build successful careers but also to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world beyond.”
FMU’s Spring Commencement will confer bachelor’s and master’s degrees upon students representing a wide range of academic disciplines—from business and education to law, science, and the arts. The ceremony will include special recognitions of outstanding academic achievement and community service.
Founded in 1879, Florida Memorial University is South Florida’s only historically Black university and one of the oldest academic institutions in the state of Florida. With a proud heritage rooted in faith, scholarship, and service, FMU continues to educate tomorrow’s leaders through innovative programs and a commitment to social responsibility.
A TICKET IS REQUIRED FOR ADMISSION
