Willeta Donaldson began employment at the University of Illinois
in 1958 as a Clerk-Stenographer I in the Office of Admissions
and Records. She retired as an Administrative Assistant I (Assistant
to the Director of Admissions) in 1995. Her duties included handling
admissions for special category applicants, serving as Affirmative
Action Officer for 17 years and Assistant to the Director for
Residency for incoming undergraduate and graduate students.
Willeta along with several others, was instrumental in the integration
of Urbana Schools. She served as an officer at Thomas Paine Elementary
School, Urbana Junior High School and Urbana Senior High School
Parent Teacher Association (PTA). She and Carlos were co-presidents
at the University High School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO).
Willeta received a NAACP Award and College of LAS Award (Transition
Program) in the year 2000. She was Black Mom of the Year at the
University of Illinois in 1982. Presently, Willeta is serving
as Chair of the Urbana Human Relations Commission, City of Urbana
and is a member of the University of Illinois Campus Round Table.
She is a member of Bethel A.M.E. Church and is President of the
Bethel Choir. Willeta is currently working part-time for the Director
of Development at the University of Illinois School of Social
Work.
Willeta's husband Carlos, is a University of Illinois graduate
and worked at the University until his retirement in 1999. Their
three children, Carlos Jr., Carletta, and Dennis also attended
the University and have worked or do work in Champaign County.
Carlos Jr. and his wife Mae Donaldson have two sons: Ryan and
Blake.
Willeta
Donaldson
)
denotes original charter members of the Champaign County Section
of the National Council of Negro Women.