Miss Willa Mae Thomas: A Legacy of Hospitality and Global Citizenship
As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor the extraordinary contributions of Black Americans who have shaped our communities through acts of service, leadership, and compassion. One such figure is Willa Mae Thomas, a woman whose selfless dedication to fostering international goodwill left an indelible mark on Indianapolis and beyond.
I came across the legacy of Willa Thomas while exploring the archives of The International Center’s collection in the Indianapolis Public Library’s Digital Indy Library for The Center’s 50th Anniversary a couple of years ago. I was intrigued when I learned of the work of the International Welcoming Committee and Miss Willa Thomas’ leadership that predated The Center. Since then, I have learned anecdotally about immigrants that were received by Miss Thomas, but I was surprised that her legacy and contributions to a global Indianapolis were not more widely documented.
For over 25 years, Miss Thomas served as a guiding light for thousands of high school and college students from around the world who came to Indiana for their studies. With no financial compensation, she met students at the airport, ensured they were prepared for Indiana’s weather, and helped them find housing. But her commitment went far beyond logistics—she became a mentor, an advocate, and a maternal figure to countless young people navigating a new country.
Understanding the importance of belonging, Miss Thomas made it her mission to integrate these students into the community. She secured complimentary tickets to local events for those who couldn’t afford them, arranged honorary citizenship certificates through the Mayor’s office, and even found host families for holiday meals. Her support extended to life’s most significant moments—sending birthday cards, attending weddings, organizing baby showers, and, in the most unfortunate cases, making burial arrangements for students who passed away during their time in Indiana.
Her inspiration stemmed from a personal experience. After receiving warm hospitality while attending a religious conference in Europe, she vowed to extend the same kindness to international students arriving in the United States. This commitment led to the formation of the International Welcome Committee of Indianapolis; an organization dedicated to embracing students from diverse backgrounds. Through fundraising dinners, social gatherings, and advocacy efforts, the committee enriched the lives of many and strengthened global ties within the local community.
Miss Thomas’s impact was so profound that the city formally recognized her contributions. In 1975, Indianapolis Mayor Richard G. Lugar proclaimed June 28 as “Willa Thomas Day,” acknowledging her unwavering support of international students and her role as an ambassador of goodwill. Mayor Lugar, known for his international vision and commitment to diplomacy, granted Miss Thomas the authority to present honorary citizenship certificates to international visitors studying in Indianapolis. This recognition solidified her role as a bridge between cultures, ensuring that students felt welcomed and valued in their new home. That same year, a grand reception was held in her honor at New Bethel Baptist Church, where domestic and international friends gathered to celebrate her work. Guests from countries including Jamaica, Uganda, Ghana, Palestine, Korea, the Philippines, Brazil, Pakistan, and India came together to pay tribute. International student George Darku of Ghana even presented Miss Thomas with an original painting as a token of appreciation.
The event featured musical performances, heartfelt speeches, and a proclamation that highlighted her decades of dedication. Among those honoring her were dignitaries such as former Rep. Rev. William H. Hudnut, Church Women United President Mrs. Cary Jacobs, Central District Baptist Association Vice-Moderator Rev. John Stephenson, and Indiana Missionary Baptist State Convention State President Dr. F. Benjamin Davis. The depth of gratitude expressed at this gathering was a testament to the profound impact Miss Thomas had on countless lives.
Despite facing personal health challenges, Miss Thomas remained steadfast in her mission, prioritizing the well-being of her student family above all else. Her dream of establishing an International House—complete with housing, study spaces, and cultural resources—demonstrated her long-term vision of inclusivity and education.
Miss Thomas’s story is a testament to the power of individual action in fostering cross-cultural understanding and unity. At a time when division often dominates headlines, her legacy reminds us that hospitality and human connection can transcend borders.
As we reflect on Black history, let us draw inspiration from Miss Willa Mae Thomas’s unwavering commitment to service and global citizenship. Her work not only uplifted thousands of students but also exemplified the profound impact of kindness and community. This Black History Month, may we all strive to follow her example, ensuring that every person—regardless of where they come from—feels welcomed, supported, and valued.
