IWU’s Original Power Couple: Wilbur and Ardelia Williams
College is a time for new experiences—a new place to live, new learning opportunities, and sometimes, new love. Whether two students fall in love at first sight during their freshman year or build a slow-burning romance over time, love has always thrived on Indiana Wesleyan University’s (IWU) campus. Over the years, many “power couples” have formed at IWU, but one duo shines the brightest: Wilbur and Ardelia Williams.
Growing up less than 50 miles apart, Wilbur and Ardelia both chose to attend Marion College (now IWU) before they even knew each other’s names. Wilbur studied religion and philosophy, and commuted to school on his scooter from the town of Fairmount. Ardelia pursued art and education, and lived in Teter Hall, above the school's dining area. Their relationship began on campus as friends. Wilbur would confide in Ardelia about his women troubles, and she would promptly listen. Then one night, his dinner date for a big event bailed on him. He asked Ardelia for help, and that one date led to many more.
Their time at the college was full of fun and laughter, as they were quite the pranksters. There were many nights that Ardelia would climb into her dorm from the fire escape after hours, coming back from their adventures. Along with the good times together, also came some hardships. Ardelia's father did not approve of their relationship at first, but they always persevered and came out of tough situations stronger. After graduating in 1951, they embarked on the rest of their life together.
A Life of Love, Faith, and Adventure
Shortly after graduation, Wilbur and Ardelia married at College Wesleyan Church, right on IWU’s campus. Their life together was full of faith and adventure. Over the next 16 years, they started a family, moved overseas, and returned to the United States. Their journey took them from Indiana to New Jersey and back to Indiana before ultimately leading them back to IWU, the place where their love story began. Wilbur gave up his job to move back to Marion, cutting his salary in half. They only cared about following God's call.
When they returned as faculty members in 1967, Wilbur became a biblical literature and archaeology professor, while Ardelia taught art. Together, they helped the university flourish and became beloved professors, leaving a lasting impact on their students. Their influence extended beyond the classroom, as they led student trips abroad to places like England and Italy, integrating faith and education through hands-on learning.
Wilbur’s dedication to his students earned him the Professor of the Year award eight times throughout his career, while Ardelia grew the art program from a single student to a thriving community of 100. Their shared passion and commitment helped shape the university into what it is today.
Generosity and a Lasting Legacy
In addition to their dedication to teaching, Wilbur and Ardelia were generous philanthropists. They poured their time, talents, and financial resources into the university they loved.
Ardelia hand-crafted many stained-glass windows for IWU, which still adorn the Noggle Christian Ministries Building, filling the space with her artistry and color. Wilbur, in a profound act of generosity, chose to earn only $1 per year during his final 22 years at IWU, donating the rest of his salary back to the university.
Their generosity also led to the funding of several student scholarships and the construction of Williams Prayer Chapel, a quiet sanctuary where students can pray, reflect, and grow in their faith. The chapel serves as a living testament to the couple’s devotion to IWU and their commitment to spiritual formation.
A Love That Lives On
Wilbur and Ardelia’s 69-year marriage touched IWU’s campus in countless ways, leaving an unparalleled legacy. Their relationship serves as an inspiration to Christian couples, demonstrating what God can do through a relationship rooted in faith and devotion.
Still teasing each other endearingly until the very end, both Wilbur and Ardelia passed away in 2021, just 17 days apart. Their lives and impact were deeply celebrated by past and present members of the IWU community, who were blessed by their love, leadership, and generosity.
The couple is laid to rest in Marion, the place where God allowed them to make a lasting impact for his kingdom. Their presence can still be felt on campus—in the quiet sanctuary of the prayer chapel, the radiant glow of Ardelia’s stained-glass windows, and most importantly, in the lives they uplifted.
Wilbur and Ardelia Williams were—and always will be—IWU’s ultimate power couple.
