Office of the President
Presidential Leadership
The Office of the President provides leadership and strategic direction for Spelman College. Explore information about the president, connect with the office, meet its leadership team, and access presidential speeches, interviews, and media resources.
Dr. Ayanna Howard
Dr. Ayanna Howard is a renowned roboticist, artificial intelligence pioneer, entrepreneur and higher education leader who will serve as the 12th president of Spelman College, the nation's top-ranked Historically Black College or University (HBCU).
Widely recognized for her contributions to robotics, artificial intelligence, and human-centered technology, Dr. Howard has spent her career advancing innovation while expanding opportunities for future generations of students, researchers, and leaders. Her work spans academia, government, industry, and entrepreneurship, positioning her as a leading voice on the intersection of technology, education, and societal impact.
Office Location and Staff
The Office of the President is located on the first floor of Rockefeller Hall. It is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Chief of Staff
Derrick L. Tillman-Kelly, Ph.D.
Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Chief of Staff
Nicole Johnson, MSW
Deputy Chief of Staff
Geneva Lane
Executive Assistant to the Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Chief of Staff
Mark E. Lee, Ph.D.
Special Advisor to the President on Academic Innovation and Strategic Initiatives
Ombudsperson
Erika Walker-Cash, C’97, JD, MSW
Ombuds Officer
Ombuds Officer
Assistants to the President
Atiya Johnson
Executive Assistant to the President
Karen D. Roberts
Administrative Coordinator, Presidential Operations
Executive Assistant to the President
Karen D. Roberts
Administrative Coordinator, Presidential Operations
Reynolds Cottage Residence Staff
Andrea Davidson
Executive Residence Attendant
Executive Residence Attendant
Fireside Chat With Dr. Ayanna Howard
On Friday, June 12, the Spelman College Board of Trustees announced the appointment of Dr. Ayanna Howard as the College's 12th president. In this video, Dr. Howard sits down with Trustee Cara J. Hughes, C'2003, to discuss her appointment and share with the community her hopes for moving Spelman Forward.
Follow the Spelman College President on X: @SpelmanPres