HUNTSVILLE, AL – The Board of Trustees of Oakwood University has announced the appointment of Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown, Ph.D., RN, MSA, FAAN, FNAP, FADLN as the 12th president of Oakwood University. The announcement concludes a comprehensive and prayerful search process. Dr. Spivey-Brown will officially assume leadership on July 1, 2025, succeeding Dr. Leslie Pollard, who has led the institution over the 15 years.

Dr. Spivey-Brown, who becomes the first female president in the 129-year history of the university brings a wealth of experience in higher education, leadership, and a deep commitment to Oakwood’s mission of preparing students for service through excellence in faith, scholarship, and leadership. With an impressive background in administration, academia, and ministry, Dr. Spivey-Brown is uniquely positioned to lead Oakwood University into its next chapter of growth and innovation.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown to the Oakwood family. She is a dynamic, spirit filled, higher educational administrative leader with an impressive record of enrollment growth and academic excellence. During this critical time in the history of this university the board has prayed and fasted for God’s direction in this selection process.”

– Dr. Alex Bryant, Chair of the Oakwood University Board of Trustees

Dr. Spivey-Brown has most recently served as Howard University for the last 10 years as the Dean in the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences. With over two decades of experience in higher education administration, she has played a pivotal role in academic program development, accreditation, and strategic leadership.

Prior to her role at Howard University, Dr. Spivey-Brown held key leadership positions at Loma Linda University and Washington Adventist University, where she spearheaded graduate and undergraduate program expansion, secured multimillion-dollar grants, and strengthened accreditation standards. As a recognized consultant and subject matter expert, she has advised institutions on program accreditation and healthcare disparities. A Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, Dr. Spivey-Brown continues to shape the future of nursing education through research, mentorship, and advocacy for diversity in healthcare. Dr. Spivey-Brown was the 2023 coveted Gold Award winner, from Arnold P. Gold Foundation, an honor which demonstrates national recognition in medicine and healthcare.

“I am deeply humbled that God chose me to be the 12th president of Oakwood University for such a time as this. I look forward to collaborating with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and stakeholders to build on Oakwood’s rich history and advance its mission and vision.”

– Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown, Oakwood University’s President-Elect

“We are delighted to join the Board of Trustees of Oakwood University in welcoming and congratulating Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown on her appointment as the 12th president of the institution. As she prepare to lead this illustrious university, we remain confident that President Spivey-Brown will demonstrate strength and resilience. Inspired by Psalm 27:13, we believe in the goodness of the Lord and are optimistic about her leadership. As she champion Oakwood’s mission to new heights, we at HCF pledge our unwavering support under her leadership. We extend heartfelt congratulations to President Spivey-Brown on her appointment and extend our deepest prayers to the Oakwood community for immense success and prosperity in the future.”

– Demetrius Johnson, Jr., founder, President & CEO, HCF

As a champion for academic excellence, diversity, and spiritual growth, Dr. Spivey-Brown is committed to strengthening Oakwood’s legacy as a premier institution of higher learning and advance its mission of Jesus’ soon coming for future generations.

About Oakwood University
Oakwood University, a historically Black, Seventh-day Adventist institution, is to transform students through biblically-based education for service to God and humanity. For more information, visit www.oakwood.edu.

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