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 milestone celebrates individual achievements and underscores the critical importance of nurturing the next generation of executive leaders within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Now in its fifth year, HBCU ELI is noted as one of the most prestigious executive leadership programs for HBCUs in the United States. To view a full list of the 2025 Community of Fellows, click here.
The fellows are proven executive leaders and change agents who will participate in a series of virtual and residency seminars providing knowledge and hands-on skills. The program focuses on 13 core competencies resulting in a certificate and optional micro-credentials that prepare future presidents to lead the nation’s HBCUs.
HBCU ELI offers a transformative learning experience that empowers participants to address the complex challenges facing HBCUs today. Through academic excellence, practical experience, and mentorship, graduates emerge as visionary leaders who are prepared to drive positive change and advance the legacy of HBCUs.
“HBCU ELI is dedicated not only to the current leaders of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) but also to those who aspire to leadership roles within these institutions in the future. A comprehensive preparation across various disciplines is imperative for achieving success,” stated President George T. French, Jr., Ph.D., Clark Atlanta University. “By investing in the next generation through our Community of Fellows program, we effectively respond to this imperative—drawing upon the wealth of knowledge, experiences, and insights contributed by alumni, as well as other distinguished HBCU leaders and stakeholders.”
The success of HBCU ELI is made possible through the generous support of grants from leading organizations such as the Chan Zuckerberg Institute, ECMC, the W. K. Kellogg Foundation, the Rich Foundation, and the Truist Foundation, among others. These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to investing in the future success of HBCUs nationwide.
“As we celebrate the remarkable 5th anniversary of the Executive Leadership Institute at CAU, I commend the visionary leadership and steadfast commitment that has propelled this program to the forefront of HBCU excellence. The Class of 2025 Fellows embody the future of HBCU leadership, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of them for stepping into this transformative journey,” said Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins, Executive Director, HBCU ELI and 18th President of Bennett College. “Programs like HBCU ELI are indispensable in equipping our next generation of leaders with the tools, wisdom, and resilience to uphold the proud legacies of our institutions while navigating the complex challenges of higher education today. Here’s to continued innovation, collaboration, and impact as we advance the mission of HBCUs nationwide.”
2025 HBCU ELI Community of Fellows program speakers include:
- Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins, HBCU ELI Executive Director, 18th President Bennett College
- Dr. Cheryl Davenport Dozier, HBCU ELI Program Coordinator, President Emerita, Savannah State University
- Dr. George T. French, President, 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, Philanthropic Strategist, Bank of America Private Bank
- Dr. Robert Franklin, President Emeritus, Morehouse College and;
- Dr. Adena W. Loston, President, St. Phillip’s College, among others
To view the full list of HBCU ELI speakers and coaches, click here.
Encouraging the fellows to think beyond the classroom, veteran educator, former HBCU President Emeritus of Savannah State University and ELI Program Coordinator for the Community of Fellows, Dr. Cheryl Davenport Dozier, emphasized the importance of building sustainable HBCUs. “As leaders, you are not only tasked with advancing our institutions but also with ensuring that HBCUs continue to be drivers of equity and empowerment for communities of color. Sustainability is key—not just financially, but also through programs, partnerships, and innovative approaches that create long-lasting positive impacts. I implore every fellow to lead with vision and purpose, fostering institutions that uplift and inspire the next generation of leaders and scholars.”
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, HBCUs were established prior to 1964 with the principal mission of educating Black Americans. Although these institutions were developed in an environment of legal segregation, they contributed substantially to the progress of Black Americans by providing access to higher education.
About HBCU ELI at Clark Atlanta University
The HBCU Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University (HBCU ELI) is a groundbreaking incubator for recruiting and developing the future presidents of America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. ELI equips high-potential leaders with tools and strategies that support the education and business goals of more than 100 HBCUs. Through ELI, the ability of HBCUs to survive and thrive is improved. In addition to granting thousands of degrees each year, HBCUs boast illustrious alumni like Martin Luther King, Jr., Oprah Winfrey, and Vice President Kamala Harris, among others. Visit hbcueli.com for more information and join the conversation on social media @hbcueli; #hbcueli.
