Dr. Willie James
Wimberly

James was the second oldest of eleven children, born in Pompano Beach, Florida, to Clara and John Henry Wimberly Sr. He began his early education at Coleman Elementary School but struggled academically from first through fifth grade. His schooling was frequently interrupted due to medical and vision problems. After two years of treatment and hospitalization, he lost his sight and was completely blind by the age of thirteen.

James’s greatest fear was that he would not receive an education, and he did not want to be a burden on his family or society. However, he was given the opportunity to attend the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind in St. Augustine, Florida, where he studied for eight years, graduating in 1959 magna cum laude at the age of 21.

Before graduating from high school, James faced a major crisis. A state law required all blind graduates to obtain a waiver before enrolling in college. With the assistance of his counselor, family, and friends, he successfully received a waiver and was able to enroll at Florida A&M University (FAMU) without delay to pursue his education.

James earned his bachelor’s degree in Psychology with honors from FAMU in 1962. During his time at FAMU, he became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Beta Nu Chapter (1961); the Honor Society Alpha Kappa Mu; and the National Honor Society of Kappa Delta Pi. Additionally, he was one of the first individuals inducted into the Department of Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame at FAMU as a distinguished alumnus.

James continued his pursuit of education and obtained a master’s degree in general psychology from Tennessee State University in 1964. He later enrolled in the Clinical Psychology program at the University of Minnesota with the goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. He then moved to New York City, where he married Evelyn Wright.

James began his professional career as a psychiatric social worker with Big Brothers of NYC. He later became an adjunct professor, teaching at Malcolm-King College. Years later, he joined Hunter College, City University of New York, where he advanced from counselor to supervisor, then to assistant director, and eventually director of counseling. He later became the director of the Search for Education, Elevation, and Knowledge (SEEK) program. After 40 years of service, he retired.

James was a lifetime honorary member and founding member of Delta Epsilon Beta, a founding honorary member of Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society, and was inducted into Who’s Who Among American Teachers.

James and his lovely wife Evelyn Wimberly have three daughters—Penelope Wimberly Davis, Helena White, and Thajuana Giles-Smith.

He also had ten siblings: four brothers—John, Floyd, Robert, and Clifford—and six sisters—Ruby, Geraldine, Annie Ruth, Larita, and Robin.