Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr.: A Catalyst for Business, Brotherhood, and Community Uplift
- Marcus D. Taylor
- Jul 14
- 6 min read
Updated: Jul 15
A Voice of Impact at the 2025 Governor’s Small Business Summit
On July 24, 2025, Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr. member of the Denton-Lewisville (TX) Alumni Chapter, will serve as a panelist at the Governor’s Small Business Summit in Waxahachie, Texas. His participation in this prestigious event not only reflects his rising influence in the realm of small business and entrepreneurship, but it also symbolizes the power of representation, strategy, and service within our community. His presence on such a platform provides attendees with more than just another professional perspective—it gives them access to a deeply reflective and values-based narrative of entrepreneurial growth and civic responsibility.
Brother Wilson speaks from wisdom that comes from not only what one achieves, but from the willingness to remain a student. His humility, grounded in years of trial, faith, and mentorship, resonated with small business owners and civic leaders from across the state. As a panelist, he brings a unique lens—one where economic empowerment and social impact are not mutually exclusive but mutually reinforcing.
“I look forward to learning more than speaking. Listening to others who’ve found success keeps me sharp and humble. Growth never stops.”— Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr.
Brotherhood at the Core: A Proud Kappa Man Since 1999
Brother Wilson entered the bond through the Zeta Upsilon Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. in the Spring of 1999 at the University of North Texas. From the very beginning, his Kappa journey was shaped by meaningful relationships and a deep respect for the values of our noble bond. He served as the Keeper of Records of the chapter during his undergraduate years, signaling early on his desire to uplift, guide, and serve with moral clarity and leadership.
“If I had to do it all over again, I’d make the same decision ten times over. I’m grateful to be part of our noble bond.”— Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr.
The influence of brothers like Sam Golden, who became both a professional partner and spiritual mentor, played a pivotal role in his development. Their connection, rooted in both Kappa and Christ, continues to exemplify the power of fraternal relationships that extend far beyond the undergraduate years. For Brother Wilson, Kappa has never been just a step—it has been a platform for transformative leadership and purposeful service.
Real Estate, Franchises, and Expanding Legacy
Brother Wilson’s entrepreneurial impact is far-reaching. Most notably, he is part-owner of Gateway Park, a $120 million development project in Sunnyvale, Texas. This mixed-use project stands as a beacon of economic excellence, innovation, and scalability. Yet his influence doesn’t stop there. He is the proud owner of multiple UPS Store franchises, each representing a physical manifestation of his belief in creating access to opportunity and jobs in the community.
In addition to logistics and development, Brother Wilson has made bold strides into the fine dining and boutique wine bar industry. With new restaurant and hospitality locations opening in 2024 and beyond, his business ventures are rapidly expanding across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. These endeavors speak to his keen market insight, his understanding of brand positioning, and his ability to scale effectively across industries.
“I’ve never set income goals. For 20 years, I’ve set giving goals. That’s how I measure significance.”— Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr.
His advisory work also includes consulting services in capital fundraising, franchise acquisition, and real estate development. But what sets him apart is not the size of his portfolio—it’s the integrity and intentionality with which he builds.
From Setback to Strength: A Story of Resilience
Brother Wilson’s story would be incomplete without recognizing the adversity he has overcome. In his late twenties, during the 2008 mortgage crisis, he faced one of the most difficult chapters of his life. After acquiring a 40-unit apartment complex and building a strong financial portfolio, the economic downturn brought devastating losses. He lost more than $3 million in assets and ultimately had to file for bankruptcy.
“You’re going to fail. Embrace it. The quicker you fail, the quicker you grow.”— Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr.
But it wasn’t just the financial fallout that defined this period—it was the wisdom gained. Rather than retreating, he chose to rebuild. Through prayer, discipline, and the encouragement of mentors, he began anew. He not only restored his entrepreneurial journey but also deepened his spiritual calling by enrolling in seminary and completing a Master’s in Theological Studies.
This chapter of his life underscores the essence of perseverance. For Brother Wilson, failure was a teacher, and faith was the compass that guided him back to higher ground.
Civic Leadership: Service in Sunnyvale and Beyond
Brother Wilson is now serving his third consecutive term on the Sunnyvale ISD Board of Trustees, where he made history as the district’s first African American elected official. In this role, he champions educational equity, responsible governance, and the development of future-ready schools. His experience in public administration, paired with his unwavering sense of duty, makes him a powerful advocate for students and families.
“If you’re not involved locally, you’ve forfeited your right to complain.”— Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr.
In addition to his work with SISD, Brother Wilson was appointed to the Board of Directors for Attack Life Sloan, a nonprofit founded by his late friend Nick Sloan. The organization raises awareness and funds for military veterans diagnosed with ALS. He also joined the Board of the Greater Ennis Chamber of Commerce in 2024, adding his voice and insight to the economic advancement of regional small businesses. His impact continues through his role on the UNT Alumni Relations Board, solidifying his presence in both education and economic development.
Mentorship in Action: Building Up the Next Generation
For Brother Wilson, mentorship is mission-critical. One of his most impactful relationships is with Brother Marcus Traylor, whom he guided from adolescence into professional and fraternal maturity. Marcus’s rise to a six-figure position at a prestigious firm—and his entry into Kappa Alpha Psi—serve as a living testament to what intentional guidance can accomplish.
“I didn’t have my Biological father growing up, but I had my Grandfather Perry Wilson and mentors. Now, I try to be that for others.”— Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr.
Through his boutique consulting firm, Emeritus Advisers. LLC, Wilson provides coaching and strategy to emerging entrepreneurs. He helps others replicate the formula for sustainable business success while instilling values of service, integrity, and accountability. He doesn’t just talk mentorship—he lives it.
Faith Without Compromise
In 2012, following a season of personal and financial struggle, Brother Wilson enrolled in seminary and later earned his Master’s in Theological Studies. It was more than a degree—it was a calling. Today, he walks boldly in his faith, using every platform, from boardrooms to pulpits, to share messages of hope, purpose, and redemption.
“My goal has always been to be a self-funded missionary.”— Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr.
This calling enables him to share his beliefs with global executives and local leaders alike—people who, despite their success, often find themselves seeking something money cannot buy. Brother Wilson bridges the gap between commerce and calling, creating a blueprint for values-based leadership in a complex world.
Legacy, Endowments, and Kappa League Support
Brother Wilson has already established two endowed scholarships at the University of North Texas in his name. These are just the beginning. As his ventures continue to grow, he is actively exploring avenues to invest in Kappa Alpha Psi’s youth development programs, particularly the Kappa League and Guide Right.
“I want to make sure some of our blessings get shared with Kappa.”— Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr.
He understands that legacy is not just about leaving assets—it’s about activating access. By supporting our youth, Brother Wilson ensures that the next generation sees the full spectrum of what’s possible when values meet vision.
Words to the Young, Bold, and Ambitious
Brother Wilson’s message to the youth is as practical as it is profound. He reminds young people to remain grounded and focused, especially in a world filled with distractions and discouragement.
“Cling to your faith. Write everything down. Surround yourself with encouragers. The vision was given to you—not to them.”— Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr.
These words carry the weight of wisdom. They remind us that dreams without discipline are simply ideas, but dreams built on structure, faith, and wise counsel are destiny waiting to be fulfilled.
Connect with Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr.
Website: www.kelleytonwilson.com
Social Media: @kelleytonsr on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads
Call to Action: Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor
The Denton-Lewisville (TX) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. proudly honors Brother Kelleyton Wilson Sr. as a living testament to the Fraternity’s purpose: to inspire service in the public interest through the bond of brotherhood and achievement.
Let us follow his example and:
Support our Guide Right and Kappa League programs with resources, time, and mentorship
Create collaborative partnerships across our professional and fraternal networks
Honor our history by building future legacies, through endowments, internships, and speaking engagements
Celebrate and elevate brothers who are achieving in every field—so our youth can visualize what’s possible
Let Brother Wilson's journey remind us: Brotherhood is not just a bond—it’s a responsibility
Comments