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A Passion for the Planet
Jessica Wilson ’25 cultivates a sustainable future
University News | May 21, 2025
When Jessica Wilson crossed the stage on May 17 to receive her diploma from Virginia Wesleyan University, she wasn’t just closing a chapter—she was planting the seeds for a future shaped by environmental stewardship, global citizenship, and transformative leadership.
A native of Bordentown, New Jersey, Wilson graduated as part of the Class of 2025 with a double major in Earth and Environmental Science and Sustainability Management. Her journey to VWU began with a vision: one shaped by early experiences and a desire to make a tangible difference.
“I decided to attend VWU because I wanted to grow from and be part of the Batten Honors College,” Wilson said. “I was inspired by their emphasis on community, global citizenship, and environmental stewardship. They were also one of the only schools that offered a sustainability management major.”
Her passion for the planet took root in high school, when she joined a local student sustainability group. There, she found role models in fellow students and dedicated professionals committed to tackling climate change and promoting a more sustainable world.
“I wanted to study environmental science to have a strong baseline understanding of the challenges we face,” she explained. “I studied sustainability management because I am most passionate about how we can most effectively implement sustainable solutions.”
At VWU, Wilson didn’t just study sustainability—she lived it. As a leader in Marlins Go Green, the university’s environmental club, she helped resurrect the group after it had nearly disappeared during the pandemic.
“During the summer before my sophomore year, my friend and I decided we wanted to revive the club,” she said. “Building and learning from an eco-conscious community is one of my most valued experiences at VWU.”
Her dedication didn’t go unnoticed. During the Spring Honors Convocation, Wilson earned three of the university’s top awards: the President’s Leadership Award, the Outstanding Graduate in Earth & Environmental Sciences Award, and the Sustainability Management Award.
She also forged meaningful memories beyond the classroom. One of her most cherished experiences was traveling to Haines, Alaska as part of the Environmental and Cultural Sustainability course for first-year honors students.
“I made lasting friendships, engaged with environmental professionals, and fell in love with camping,” she recalled with a smile.
"And, because VWU is a United Nations PRME Signatory," she added, "I have the pleasure to serve as a PRME Global Students Regional Leader for North America."
Now, as a proud graduate, Wilson is already turning her knowledge into action. She will continue her internship this summer with Church & Dwight as a sustainability associate—a role that gives her hands-on experience in corporate environmental practices. Closer to home, she’s been appointed to the Environmental Commission in Bordentown, a role she will be sworn into next month.
Looking ahead, Wilson has her sights set on influencing sustainability from within the corporate world.
“While right now this may look like serving as a corporate sustainability officer, as the field evolves and I better understand my niche, I can also see myself pursuing shareholder advocacy, responsible management programming, and/or disclosure resource development,” she said.
With her feet firmly planted in both science and strategy, and a heart rooted in community and purpose, Jessica Wilson is poised to be a powerful force for good in a world that needs her voice now more than ever.