Gregory D. Goins is the new dean of the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at North Carolina A&T State University. He has served as the college’s associate dean for the past four years, and he previously chaired the department of natural resources and environmental design. Dr. Goins is also the founder of the HBCU’s Small Farms Resource and Innovation Center. Earlier in his career, he spent eight years as a scientist with NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, where he led research in controlled-environment agriculture and designed plant growth experiments conducted aboard space shuttles and the International Space Station.
“Dr. Goins brings extensive experience and an impressive record of impact through connecting research, student success and community engagement in service of our land-grant mission,” said Andrew Daire, provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs. “He understands both the rich history and the tremendous future potential of the college, which gives me confidence and excitement as he steps into the role.”
Dr. Goins is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he majored in biology. He holds a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in crop physiology from North Carolina State University.
Michael L. Jones has been named dean of the School of Nursing at Hampton University in Virginia, making him the first Black man to lead the school in its 135-year history. Dr. Jones comes to his new appointment with more than two decades of experience in nursing leadership, academic administration, research, and national healthcare advocacy. Most recently, he served as a clinical associate professor and the inaugural associate dean for engagement and professional development at the East Carolina University College of Nursing in Greenville, North Carolina. Previously, he was the Richards Endowed Graduate Nursing Chair at Brenau University’s Mary Inez Grindle School of Nursing in Norcross, Georgia.
“Dr. Jones represents the very best of Hampton University,” said President Darrell K. Williams. “He is a scholar, servant leader, and innovator whose career has been dedicated to improving health outcomes and expanding opportunities for underserved communities. As an alumnus who has already made history within our institution, he understands the significance of Hampton’s nursing legacy and is uniquely positioned to lead the School of Nursing into its next era of excellence.”
Dr. Jones completed his undergraduate nursing education at Meridian Community College and the University of Mississippi Medical Center. He earned his Ph.D. in nursing from Hampton University.
Chance M. Glenn Sr. has joined Wilberforce University in Ohio as the new dean of the College of Engineering and special assistant to the president. Dr. Glenn comes to Wilberforce from another HBCU, Alabama A&M University, where he served as a professor and research director of the Space Engineering, Technology, and Innovation Laboratory. Before that role, he was provost and vice president of academic affairs at the University of Houston-Victoria. Earlier in his career, he was dean of the College of Engineering, Technology, and Physical Sciences at Alabama A&M University. His recent research has explored concepts relating to gravitational wave generation, advanced propulsion systems, and spacetime engineering.
“As we continue to build on Wilberforce University’s rich legacy while positioning our students for success in a rapidly evolving world, Dr. Glenn’s expertise and vision will be invaluable,” said President Vann R. Newkirk. “His commitment to research, innovation, and student achievement reflects the very best of what Wilberforce aspires to be.”
Dr. Glenn is a graduate of the University of Maryland, where he majored in electrical engineering. He holds a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.
Brittaney S. Lott is dean of the School of Business & Entrepreneurship and assistant professor of business administration at Voorhees University in Denmark, South Carolina. Dr. Lott has more than 17 years of experience in higher education administration, curriculum development, faculty leadership, and accreditation compliance. Prior to her new role, she was director of the information technology program at Miller-Motte College in Tennessee. She has also held academic appointments with Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, and Colorado Technical University. Outside of academia, Dr. Lott is the founder and CEO of BeCode Consulting.
“Dr. Lott brings a strong combination of academic leadership, business expertise and commitment to student success,” said President Ronnie Hopkins. “Her experience building programs and partnerships will help strengthen our School of Business & Entrepreneurship and prepare our students for success in today’s evolving business environment.”
Dr. Lott received her bachelor’s degree in philosophy with a minor in education from Converse University in Spartanburg, South Carolina. She holds an MBA with a concentration in information systems and technology management from American InterContinental University and a doctorate in accounting and finance from Trident University International.
Cheryl A. Thaxton is dean of the School of Health Sciences and chief nursing administrator at Winston-Salem State University in North Carolina. With more than three decades of experience in nursing and leadership, Dr. Thaxton most recently served as associate dean and chair for graduate studies in the College of Nursing at the University of North Texas Health at Fort Worth. Her research interests include palliative care, hospice, neonatal nursing, pain management, loss, grief, bereavement, geriatric nursing, advanced nursing practice, mentorship, quality improvement, and faculty onboarding.
“Winston-Salem State University is at an important moment of growth in health sciences, and Dr. Thaxton brings the leadership, experience and vision we need to build on that momentum,” said Chancellor Bonita J. Brown. “As we expand our academic programs, strengthen our partnerships and prepare more graduates to meet critical healthcare workforce needs, her leadership will be instrumental in positioning WSSU for even greater impact in Winston-Salem and across North Carolina.”
An HBCU graduate, Dr. Thaxton earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Hampton University in Virginia. She holds a master’s degree in nursing from New York University and a doctor of nursing practice degree from George Washington University.
