Oakwood University Appoints First Female President

News Summary

Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown has been named the 12th president of Oakwood University, making history as the institution’s first female leader. She will assume her role on July 1, 2025, succeeding Dr. Leslie Pollard, who has led the university for 15 years. Dr. Spivey-Brown brings over two decades of experience in higher education, previously serving at Howard University. Her vision includes focusing on academic excellence and promoting diversity within the university community, amidst recent challenges and a noteworthy accreditation achievement.

Historic Leadership Change at Oakwood University in Huntsville

Exciting news has come from Huntsville, Alabama! Oakwood University has made a groundbreaking announcement—Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown has been appointed as the 12th president of the university. Marks will be made in the history books as she will be the first female president in the institution’s impressive 129-year existence. With Dr. Spivey-Brown officially stepping into her new role on July 1, 2025, there is a buzz of anticipation and optimism surrounding this new chapter at Oakwood University.

Transition of Leadership

Dr. Spivey-Brown is succeeding Dr. Leslie Pollard, who has led the university for the past 15 years. Under Dr. Pollard’s leadership, Oakwood has seen its share of achievements but has also faced some bumps along the way, including recent controversies concerning the university’s finances and admissions policies. A notable group of alumni, dubbed “Concerned Oakwoodites,” has raised questions about transparency and accountability under Pollard’s tenure, which culminated in a press conference held on October 16, 2023.

As Dr. Pollard prepares to conclude his term on June 30, 2025, and transition to the North American Division of Seventh-Day Adventists, Dr. Spivey-Brown will bring her rich experience to the forefront of Oakwood’s mission as she aims to bolster its reputation as a premier institution of higher learning.

Experience That Counts

Dr. Spivey-Brown comes with an impressive resume that showcases over two decades of involvement in higher education. Most recently, she served as the dean of the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences at Howard University for a decade. Her prior positions at Loma Linda University and Washington Adventist University have equipped her with valuable skills and insights. In her previous roles, she has successfully expanded both graduate and undergraduate programs, highlighting her ability to foster growth and innovation.

Her expertise doesn’t just stop there! Dr. Spivey-Brown is known as a recognized expert in healthcare disparities and program accreditation. With her experience as a consultant to various institutions, she is well-prepared to tackle challenges that Oakwood University may face.

A Vision for Oakwood’s Future

As she assumes her new responsibilities, Dr. Spivey-Brown has expressed her enthusiasm for enhancing academic excellence, promoting diversity, and nurturing spiritual growth within the university community. Her vision is clear—she intends to strengthen Oakwood’s legacy, ensuring that it remains a vital part of the educational landscape.

Celebrating Accomplishments

It’s also worth noting that in December 2023, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) awarded Oakwood University a full 10-year institutional accreditation, allowing it to maintain its academic standing through to 2032. This milestone reflects positively on the university even as it grapples with challenges faced by many faith-based institutions, such as attracting students from a diminishing pool.

In the year 2023, Oakwood reported a significant increase of $1.2 million in financial support from philanthropic efforts when compared to the previous year. This uptick is certainly a step in the right direction and speaks to the university’s potential for growth and resilience.

Community Response

The appointment of Dr. Spivey-Brown has elicited a wave of enthusiasm from the Board of Trustees, and community members are eager to see what the future holds under her leadership. With her commitment to excellence and a visionary approach, Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown is poised to make a substantial impact at Oakwood University. As she steps into this historic role, many are looking forward to the changes and innovations that she will undoubtedly bring to the campus.

In this exciting time of transition, it’s clear that Oakwood University is ready to embrace the future with open arms and fresh ideas. Here’s to a new chapter and the path ahead!

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Additional Resources

• Rocket City Now: Oakwood University Names Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown as 12th President
• WAFF: Oakwood University President Accepts New Role
• AL.com: Who is the Highest Paid College President in Alabama?
• WHNT: Oakwood University Alumni Call for Leadership Change
• WAFF: Alumni Group Calls for Oakwood University President’s Resignation
• Wikipedia: Oakwood University
• Google Search: Oakwood University
• Google Scholar: Oakwood University
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Oakwood University
• Google News: Oakwood University