Makola Abdullah, the fourteenth president of Virginia State University, has received a contract extension through 2032. This secures his presidency for an additional three years, as his contract was previously extended through 2029.
“I am deeply honored to continue serving this great institution and its incredible students,” said Dr. Abdullah. “Virginia State University’s mission is powerful — to transform lives and communities through education, opportunity, and excellence. I am grateful to the board of visitors for their trust and partnership as we continue to advance VSU’s legacy and vision that Greater Happens Here.”
Dr. Abdullah began his presidency at Virginia State in February 2016. Over the past decade, the HBCU has achieved record enrollment, enhanced its academic offerings, and strengthened its financial stability. Earlier this semester, the university received the largest single donor gift in its 143-year history: a $50 million unrestricted investment from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
“Dr. Abdullah’s leadership has been transformative for Virginia State University,” said Victor Branch, rector of Virginia State University’s board of visitors. “His vision, integrity, and unwavering commitment to student success and institutional excellence have positioned VSU for a future of even greater impact. This extension reflects our confidence in his continued ability to lead with distinction.”
Before coming to Virginia State, Dr. Abdullah served as provost of Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida. He served in a similar position at Florida Memorial University and was dean of the College of Engineering Sciences, Technology, and Agriculture at Florida A&M University.
Dr. Abdullah earned his bachelor’s degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C., and his master’s degree and Ph.D. in engineering from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois.
