Wilbert J. Le Melle facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Wilbert John Le Melle
United States Ambassador to Kenya
In office May 11, 1977 – June 28, 1980
Preceded by	Anthony D. Marshall
Succeeded by	William Caldwell Harrop
United States Ambassador to Seychelles
In office May 11, 1977 – June 28, 1980
Preceded by	Anthony D. Marshall
Succeeded by	William Caldwell Harrop
Personal details
Born	November 11, 1931 New Iberia, Louisiana, United States
Died	January 11, 2003 New Rochelle, New York
Political party	Democratic
Spouse	Yvonne T. Le Melle (née Tauriac)
Relations	Tilden J. Le Melle, brother
Children	Patrice, Wilbert, Jr., Gerald, Edward

Wilbert John Le Melle (born November 11, 1931 – died January 11, 2003) was an important American diplomat, writer, and teacher. A diplomat is someone who represents their country in other nations. He worked as the United States Ambassador to both Kenya and Seychelles from 1977 to 1980. He also led two important organizations: Mercy College in New York and the Phelps Stokes Fund.

Early Life and Education

Wilbert John Le Melle was born on November 11, 1931. His hometown was New Iberia, Louisiana. He was one of eight children born to Therese and Eloi LeMelle.

He studied hard and earned several degrees. In 1955, he received a Bachelor of Arts degree. The next year, 1956, he earned a Master of Arts degree. Both of these degrees came from Notre Dame Seminary. Later, in 1963, he completed his Ph.D. at the University of Denver. His Ph.D. was in political science and international relations.

Before finishing his studies, he served his country. He was a member of the United States Army. He served in the Army from 1957 to 1959.

Career Highlights

After his military service, Le Melle began his career in education. From 1956 to 1961, he was an assistant professor. He taught history and philosophy at Grambling State University.

He then moved to Boston University. There, he worked as an assistant professor. He was also a research associate in their African Studies Program. This work lasted from 1963 to 1965.

Working in Africa

In February 1965, Le Melle joined the Ford Foundation. This organization helps fund projects around the world. He became a program officer for West Africa. For the next nine years, he lived in Africa with his family. His job took him to many different countries. These included Kenya, Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.

Becoming an Ambassador

In 1977, President Jimmy Carter asked Le Melle to take on a very important role. He was asked to be the United States Ambassador. He served as Ambassador to the Republic of Kenya. He was also the Ambassador to the Republic of Seychelles. He held these important diplomatic positions until 1980.