�������Ƶ

For Vikki Lee Wilbon, a proud graduate of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, her time at FranU was more than just an academic journey, it was a life-changing experience that laid the foundation for her life’s work.

Wilbon, recently honored with the FranU Distinguished Alumna Award and inducted into the University’s Hall of Distinction, says her education at FranU instilled in her both the tenacity and spiritual strength she continues to draw on today.

“I truly earned my degree, and along the way, I learned the real meaning of tenacity, not just as a concept, but as something I had to live out every day to walk in my purpose,” she recalls. “Even in moments of doubt or difficulty, I held onto the truth that no weapon formed against me shall prosper. That mindset still guides me in leadership, reminding me to stay grounded, lead with integrity and push forward with grace.”

Those values now guide her work as owner of Rosebud Healthcare and Rosebud Training Academy in Baker, LA, an approved proprietary school focused on preparing future healthcare professionals through hands-on learning, industry compliance, and strong professional development. She also leads Rosebuds, Inc., the nonprofit arm of her organization, which conducts community outreach such as mobile COVID-19 testing, food and PPE distribution, health education events, and homeless outreach.

Wilbon sees her work as an extension of the mission and values she embraced at FranU. “What moves me most is not just their interest in healthcare, it’s that my students want to follow my path, and they’re looking to FranU as part of that journey.”

One recent example stands out: “This summer, a mother and her two daughters are taking the course together. The mother is already very successful and considering a complete career change; she’s even exploring FranU’s Accelerated Nursing Program. One daughter has a bachelor's degree in foreign language and is also thinking about pursuing nursing through FranU’s accelerated program.”

For Wilbon, these moments are reminders of the far-reaching impact of her work and of the circle that began at FranU. “It’s legacy work,” she said.

Her award recognition felt like a full-circle blessing. “It was a powerful moment where I felt God saying, ‘I see you.’ All the private struggles, the sacrifices, and the perseverance were not in vain.”

Reflecting on her journey from Batchelor, LA, to the projects of South Baton Rouge, to FranU, and now to leading her own healthcare and training organizations, Wilbon sees her life as a testament to the power of faith, hard work and purpose.

“FranU didn’t just give me an education; it gave me the courage, the values, and the spiritual foundation to step out and make a difference.”