Jerome Wardlow Sr. made history in 2005 as the first Black graduate to earn a bachelor’s degree from Bethany Lutheran College, completing a B.A. in Broadfield Social Studies. Prior to that, he spent three seasons (2001–2004) as a student-athlete on the Vikings men’s basketball team. During his senior season, Jerome found himself leading a largely freshman roster—taking on responsibilities like practice coordination and player preparation. That formative experience helped steer him toward a career in teaching and coaching.
Since graduating, Jerome has dedicated nearly two decades to education, serving as a Special Education Teacher in the Mankato Public, Milwaukee Public Schools, and West Allis–West Milwaukee school districts (2005–present). His passion for mentorship has extended well beyond the classroom, shaping a remarkable coaching career in both basketball and fastpitch softball.
As head coach for the boys’ varsity basketball team at Wisconsin Conservatory/Ronald Reagan, Jerome led his teams to an 85–27 record over six seasons, capturing two WIAA regional championships. In five seasons as head coach of the varsity fastpitch softball team, he guided his athletes to four conference titles and a 75–20 record.
Jerome’s impact on youth sports has been expansive. He served as commissioner for Wilson Premier Youth Baseball (2014–2019), coached football at Nathan Hale High School (2017–2020), and contributed to multiple youth organizations including Greenfield Hawks Youth Baseball, ABC Lions AAU, and the Greenfield Boys and Girls Youth Basketball Clubs. He currently coaches for Playground Elite, a highly competitive basketball club, and continues to mentor young athletes across southeast Wisconsin.
At West Allis Central High School, Jerome also plays a leadership role off the court, serving on the Instructional Leadership Team and as a mentor for new teachers. His experience teaching at the elementary, middle, and high school levels has sharpened his ability to tailor instruction to meet the developmental needs of both students and athletes. “Athletes often need scaffolds that allow them to access the next level of their performance—just like students do,” he explains.
Jerome often reflects on the formative experiences he had at Bethany Lutheran College. One moment, in particular, stands out:
“Coach Jeddeloh made me practice alone with an assistant coach for close to an hour. Because of this moment, I know he loves me. Giving your best effort… was a lesson I needed to learn.”
He also cherishes the sense of belonging he found on campus:
“The peaceful environment. I never really had a place prior to Bethany that allowed me to escape the problems that people around me had… I think of friends and the people that guided my growth the most.”
From pioneering graduate and student-athlete to educator, coach, and mentor, Jerome Wardlow Sr.’s journey is a powerful testament to the lasting impact of a Christ-centered education grounded in mentorship, character, and purpose.