The Willie Bolden II Memorial Scholarship honors the life, leadership, and legacy of Willie – a proud Southern University alumnus, dedicated civil engineer, and devoted supporter of student success whose commitment to education and mentorship impacted many aspiring scholars.
Willie graduated with honors from Terrebonne High School in 1988, earning the highest academic average among African American male graduates in Terrebonne Parish that year. He went on to attend Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in 1993.
Willie began his career with the MDOT in McComb, Mississippi. In 2001, he became a Licensed Professional Engineer in both Mississippi and Texas. During his career at TXDOT, he served as Construction Engineer on major transportation projects and later as Assistant Area Engineer in the Paris District, where he enjoyed mentoring inspectors and young engineers.
A proud supporter of his alma mater, Willie was a Ruby – Level Life Member of the Southern University Alumni Federation and served as Chair of the Dallas Chapter Scholarship Committee. He was also a founding member of the Southern University 1880 Society and a Life Member of the Southern University Quarterback Club. Established in his honor, this scholarship provides annual financial support to civil engineering students at Southern University who maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and demonstrate strong academic progress.
By supporting this scholarship, donors help continue Willie’s legacy of mentorship, service, and commitment to future engineers.