Clark Atlanta University's HBCU Executive Leadership Institute's New Class
Intensive Curriculum Prepares the Next Generation of HBCU Legacy Leaders
Today, the Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University (HBCU ELI) proudly announces the participation of 46 outstanding candidates for its 2025 Community of Fellows. This important milestone not only highlights individual achievements but also emphasizes the critical importance of nurturing the next generation of executive leaders within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). As the program enters its fifth year, HBCU ELI is recognized as one of the most prestigious executive leadership programs for HBCUs across the nation.
The fellows chosen for this cohort are proven leaders in their fields and change agents committed to making a difference. They will engage in a series of virtual seminars and residency programs designed to equip them with both knowledge and hands-on skills. The program focuses on 13 core competencies, resulting in a certificate as well as optional micro-credentials that specifically prepare future leaders to manage HBCUs effectively.
HBCU ELI provides a transformative learning experience, addressing complex challenges that these institutions face today. Through a blend of academic excellence, practical applications, and mentoring, graduates of this program emerge as visionary leaders prepared to catalyze positive change and expand the legacy of HBCUs.
Dr. George T. French, Jr., President of Clark Atlanta University, emphasized, "HBCU ELI is dedicated to both current leaders of HBCUs and those aspiring to leadership roles. A comprehensive preparation across various fields is imperative for attaining sustainable success. By investing in the forthcoming leaders through our Community of Fellows program, we respond to this challenge, informed by the knowledge and experiences shared by alumni and distinguished HBCU leaders."
The success of HBCU ELI is greatly attributed to generous grants from leading organizations, which include the Chan Zuckerberg Institute, ECMC, the W. K. Kellogg Foundation, the Rich Foundation, and the Truist Foundation. Such partnerships exemplify a collective commitment to fostering the future successes of HBCUs nationwide.
In celebration of the 5th anniversary of the Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University, Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins, Executive Director of HBCU ELI, congratulated the Class of 2025 Fellows. She stated, "This class embodies the future of HBCU leadership, and I commend each fellow for embarking on this transformative journey. Programs like HBCU ELI play an essential role in equipping future leaders with the necessary tools and insights to maintain our institutions' proud legacies while navigating the intricate challenges of modern higher education."
Speakers for the 2025 HBCU ELI Community of Fellows program include reputable leaders in academia, such as:
Prominent Speakers at HBCU ELI
- Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins, HBCU ELI Executive Director
- Dr. Cheryl Davenport Dozier, Program Coordinator
- Dr. George T. French, President of Clark Atlanta University
- Dr. Johnny Parham, retired Executive Director, Thurgood Marshall College Fund
- Dr. Samuel D. Jolley, Jr., Former President, Morris Brown College
- Dr. Vann Newkirk, President, Wilberforce University
- Dr. Juliette Bell, President Emerita, University of Maryland Eastern Shore
- Dr. David Wilson, President, Morgan State University
- Dr. Marguerite Stoglin, Senior Vice President, Bank of America Private Bank
- Dr. Robert Franklin, President Emeritus, Morehouse College
- Dr. Adena W. Loston, President, St. Phillip's College
Dr. Cheryl Davenport Dozier, a veteran educator, urged the fellows to envision their leadership roles beyond conventional learning environments. She emphasized the significance of ensuring that HBCUs remain leaders in equity and empowerment for communities of color. "It is vital to pursue sustainability—not only financially but also through programs and partnerships that generate lasting benefits. I encourage every fellow to lead with vision and purpose, creating institutions that uplift future generations of leaders and scholars."
Historically, HBCUs were designed primarily to educate Black Americans, especially during times of legal segregation, thereby playing a crucial role in enhancing educational access for these communities.
About HBCU ELI at Clark Atlanta University
The HBCU Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University (HBCU ELI) serves as a pioneering incubator aimed at recruiting and preparing future presidents for America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. By equipping high-potential leaders with essential tools and strategies, ELI supports the educational missions and business goals of more than 100 HBCUs, improving their capacity to thrive and excel. HBCUs, which award thousands of degrees annually, have produced remarkable alumni such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Oprah Winfrey, and Vice President Kamala Harris. For more information, visit hbcueli.com and join the conversation on social media @hbcueli; #hbcueli.
Press Contact:
Lalohni Campbell
404-593-7145
hbcueli.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HBCU Executive Leadership Institute?
The HBCU Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University prepares future leaders for Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
How many candidates are selected for the 2025 Community of Fellows?
A total of 46 outstanding candidates have been selected for the 2025 Community of Fellows.
What does the program focus on?
The program emphasizes 13 core competencies enhancing leadership skills through both virtual sessions and residency seminars.
Who are some notable speakers at the Institute?
Notable speakers include Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins and Dr. George T. French, among others.
What is the purpose of HBCU ELI?
HBCU ELI aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders for HBCUs, ensuring these institutions continue to thrive and innovate.
