By Hanna Singh
Ruston High Graduate, Carlos Wilson, has been named a Distinguished Alumni Under 40 by the RHS Alumni Association. His remarkable journey from Bearcat to business leader shows how he reflects the values instilled in him during his years at RHS.
After graduating from RHS with honors, Wilson pursued a degree at Tulane University in New Orleans. At Tulane, he not only excelled academically, earning a Bachelor of Science in Management in Finance and a Master’s in Accounting from the A.B. Freeman School of Business, but he also found success in athletics. Playing as running back and wide receiver, Wilson earned the distinction of a four-year letterman. He was also a member of the Tulane Green Wave track & field team and involved in various student organizations, including serving as president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Council.
After graduation, Wilson began his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), one of the “Big Four” accounting firms globally. There, he passed all four parts of the CPA exam, earning his Certified Public Accountant license and becoming a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Currently, he serves as an Experienced Manager in PwC’s M&A Advisory practice. In his position, Wilson supports financial and corporate buyers in operational due diligence and pre-close engagements. Wilson’s former partner at PwC, Ricardo Ruiz, recalls his pleasant experience in working with Wilson and how he inspired others.
“I have had the distinct pleasure of working alongside Carlos Wilson, and his recent selection as a Distinguished Alumni at Ruston High School comes as no surprise to those who know him. Carlos exemplifies dedication, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in everything he undertakes,” Ruiz said. “His commitment to his work and his ability to inspire those around him truly set him apart. Ruston High School has made a commendable choice in recognizing Carlos, as he embodies the values and spirit that the honor represents.”
Reflecting on his time at RHS, Wilson acknowledges that the school played a critical role in shaping his character and professional trajectory. He credits some of the opportunities he had as a student for developing the presence that he employs today in his career. Wilson offered some advice to current and future Bearcat students.
“One lesson that I’ve learned in my professional life that I wish to pass along to RHS students. Trust the process. Much like I told my graduating class at Tulane during the commencement speech: life is a microcosm of many processes, including sub-processes, milestones, failures, changes and challenges,” Wilson said. “There is a process to everything and a timeline with many varying paths. The goal may move, the timeline will shift, the dream may be deferred, and the plan will undoubtedly change, but amongst the few constants in life, there will always be a process. You are good enough to achieve whatever it is you set out to achieve so long as you remain committed to the process. Be persistent, but patient. Be steadfast, but reasonable. Be committed, and resilient. Trust the process and you will be fine.”
Regarding his recognition by his alumnus, Wilson expressed his gratitude to Ruston High. He views this award as not just a personal achievement but also as part of a legacy that inspires future Bearcats to succeed.
“Candidly, the words leave me when I try to describe the magnitude of this honor. For a ‘firmly founded’ and storied institution such as RHS to nominate and award me as a Distinguished Alumni speaks volumes,” Wilson said. “RHS has bred and produced many greats, influential people and historic figures. To me, RHS is honoring me not just with an award, but as being a part of their history and a legacy to their future catalyst for excellence. I get goosebumps just thinking about it.”
Wilson truly exemplifies the impact of Ruston High, and the impact of the values instilled at the institution. As a success story of the school, he serves as a symbol of inspiration for future Bearcats.
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