Business Owner Donates to Selma University
Posted: September 30, 2026, 6:13 PM CDT
Updated: September 30, 2026, 6:14 PM CDT
Author: George McDonald
A notable donation from a Selma business owner aims to support and promote business education at Selma University.
During a check presentation on campus, Selma-U President Dr. Stanford Angion expressed his gratitude, stating, “It is really wonderful when you find hometown people who are giving back to help others who are coming along behind him.”
Eighty-three-year-old Willie Smiley, owner of First Avenue Cleaners and a proud 1975 alumnus of Selma-U, donated $12,000 to the institution.
Smiley emphasized the importance of giving back, saying, “At this stage in life I have a few extra dollars and I want to make a contribution to the school.” He reflected on his own student experience, acknowledging the challenges of balancing personal life and education: “These funds will help to pay the tuition for students who are living on campus, their housing, their room and board, as well as their tuition.”
Angion added that Smiley’s donation not only aids students financially but also serves as a powerful example of community support. Smiley is even considering making this donation an annual tradition to further promote business and entrepreneurship in Selma.
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