RALEIGH (January 17, 2024) – To former Blue Cross Blue Shield CEO Brad Wilson, public education is simply fundamental – as a moral responsibility to our fellow citizens, to workforce development, and to our economy.

Wilson has worn many hats in public education in North Carolina.

He served as general counsel to Gov. Jim Hunt. He chaired the UNC System Board of Governors. He and his wife, Carole, endowed the Wilson Scholars, the most prestigious full-ride scholarships at their alma mater, Appalachian State University. He chairs the Governor’s Commission on Access to a Sound Basic Education (the Leandro Commission). And he has served as Executive in Residence at Wake Forest and N.C. A&T State universities.

“Public schools are critically important … for the development of a civilized, democratic society,” Wilson says in the accompanying video.

“Simply from a moral perspective … it’s the responsibility of society to provide opportunity for those that participate in that society. And public education – and education in general – is the avenue through which people become successful. Through which they can fulfill their life purpose, and give back and contribute for the benefit of everyone.

“The bumper sticker answer would be, it is an obligation of the state and it is a moral obligation of the people to provide avenues of opportunity for success and fulfillment for everyone. And public education is the primary mechanism by which that can be achieved.”

That’s a bumper sticker we all – especially state legislators in Raleigh – need to read and put to work.