Southern University honors Caleb Wilson with a posthumous degree, one year after tragic death

By Robert Heuvel

Southern University has announced that late student Caleb Wilson will posthumously receive his bachelor’s degree during the spring 2026 commencement.

Following the one-year anniversary of the death of 20-year-old engineer Wilson, Southern University remains committed to honoring the junior by awarding him his bachelor’s degree. He passed away on February 27, 2025 as a result of a tragic hazing incident that left loved ones grieving as he continued to honor his life.

“This spring, when Caleb would have walked across the stage at the FG Clark Activity Center with the Class of 2026, the university will award him a posthumous degree,” the university said in a statement. DeGriot. “We hope this tribute reflects our continued respect for his service, his achievements and the legacy he leaves within the Southern University family.”

Wilson died while pledging for the Beta Sigma chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. from Southern University. Wilson’s death was ruled a homicide after autopsy results showed he went into shock and later died as a result an emotion of the heartwhich causes an abnormal heart rhythm or cardiac arrest.

Wilson was reportedly beaten four times in the chest by fraternity member Caleb McCray before collapsing and arriving at Baton Rouge General Hospital. Since the incident, the university has expelled the fraternity and the family has filed lawsuits against the chapter, the national organization and the five people involved.

In December 2025, an East Baton Rouge Parish grand jury did just that five people charged in Wilson’s alleged hazing, WAFB reports. District Attorney Hillar Moore said the investigation is still ongoing, citing phone records and other evidence still being reviewed. McCray was charged with manslaughter and hazing. Kyle Thurman and Isaiah Smith face charges including hazing, manslaughter and obstruction. Winston Sanders and Jaydn Landrum were also charged.

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