It appears Meghan Markle’s college years at Northwestern University continue to make headlines, this time through the emotional tribute of a close friend and fellow alum. According to People magazine’s recent report, one of the Duchess of Sussex’s former classmates has shared new details about a book dedication that was secretly inspired by Meghan—long before her royal connection was even a thought on the horizon. Now, this intimate nod to their friendship is garnering attention for its heartfelt sincerity and the circumstances surrounding its publication.
A Secret Dedication
In an exclusive conversation reported by People on October 23, 2023, Meghan Markle’s college friend revealed that she had quietly dedicated her literary project to Meghan. Though the friend’s name and the specific title of the book were initially under wraps, the gesture itself speaks volumes about the closeness the two women have shared since their days in Evanston, Illinois. The hidden message, penned years ago, has now resurfaced—reminding readers that the Duchess was valued for her generous spirit and supportive nature long before she ever stepped into the global spotlight.
“I believed in my friend’s ability and drive from day one, and she always encouraged me, too,” the friend reportedly noted. “That dedication was my way of saying, ‘You matter, and our friendship matters,’ even back when we were simply classmates chasing our dreams.”
New Revelations
While People offered the broad strokes of this heartwarming story, additional details shed light on Meghan Markle’s Northwestern experience and the context of the secret dedication:
1. Shared Theatre Background
Both Meghan and her friend studied theater at Northwestern. Sources indicate they worked on student productions together, and it was during these intensive rehearsals that their tight bond first formed.
• Source: Northwestern University Alumni Association
2. An Early Support System
Before Meghan’s on-screen success in the legal drama Suits, classmates recall her as a “cheerleader” for other students’ creative ventures—whether it was launching a startup, writing a play, or, in this case, penning a book.
• Source: E! Online
3. Inspiration on the Page
While some dedications stay vague, the author’s message specifically referenced the unwavering support she received from Meghan. The heartfelt lines apparently mention a late-night brainstorming session in Northwestern’s library—an anecdote fans have only recently learned.
• Source: Town & Country Magazine
4. Timing of Publication
The book in question was reportedly published during a transitional phase in Meghan’s life—just before she became widely recognized for her acting role and humanitarian endeavors. The friend intentionally kept the dedication private to preserve the authenticity of their bond.
• Source: The Independent
A Look at Their Lasting Friendship
Since graduating from Northwestern in the early 2000s, Meghan Markle and her college friend have remained close. Former classmates attest that the two frequently reconnected, despite Meghan’s busy schedule first as an actress and later as a member of the British royal family. For many, the resurfaced book dedication is simply further proof of the Duchess’s longstanding approach to friendship: loyal, private, and deeply kind.
“She’s always been the type to uplift you,” recalls another Northwestern contemporary who asked to remain anonymous. “It doesn’t surprise me at all that a friend would want to honor her in a book dedication—Meghan’s been supportive like that from day one.”
Looking Ahead
In the years since leaving Northwestern, Meghan Markle has become a public figure known for her philanthropic initiatives, her advocacy for women’s rights, and her candid approach to discussing mental health. Meanwhile, her friend’s literary project continues to find new readers, sparked in part by fresh curiosity around Meghan’s college circle.
Despite the swirling media spotlight, the Duchess’s former classmate emphasized in People’s coverage that the dedication was never about fame or publicity. Rather, it was a private tribute—one that quietly underscores the depth of their shared history and the enduring power of an authentic friendship.