The board of trustees of Wilberforce University has chosen Algeania Warren Freeman as the historically Black educational institution’s next president. In the past, she has served as president of Martin University in Indianapolis and Livingstone College in Salisbury, North Carolina.
Mark Wilson, chairman of the Wilberforce board of trustees stated that Dr. Freeman “has proven leadership experience in an HBCU environment, and is a veteran educator that we know will continue our university’s history of academic excellence.”
In accepting the appointment, Dr. Freeman said that she was “very excited to join the Wilberforce community, and continue this University’s history of academic excellence. An exciting future awaits Wilberforce. Through this experience I have seen the dedication of all those involved in this process, and the passion that each and every person has for the university. Together, through our devotion, we will support this great university’s mission while upholding its legacy.”
Dr. Freeman has a difficult job ahead. This past summer, the board of trustees of the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association issued a “show-cause order” to the university. A show-cause order is a procedural order that requires an institution to present its case as to why its accreditation should not be withdrawn. The commission raised a large number of concerns about management, financial stability, and campus facilities. Of particular concern is $23 million in debt.
Dr. Freeman is a graduate of Fayetteville State University in North Carolina. She holds a master’s degree from Southern Illinois University and a doctorate from Ohio State University.
I congratulate you on your appointment and I am confident that you can do what Wilberforce needs at this time.
May God bless you,
Lisa Carter c/o 1997