HBCU Executive Leadership Institute

Today, we spotlight Dr. Morakinyo A. O Kuti, President of Central State University. As a member of the 2025–2026 Community of New Presidents, Dr. Kuti actively engaged alongside fellow leaders dedicated to advancing excellence across HBCUs.

Once a Fellow, always a Fellow.

Today, we spotlight Dr. Kendricks Ho**er, President of Augusta Technical College. As a member of the 2025–2026 Community of New Presidents, Dr. Ho**er actively engaged alongside fellow leaders dedicated to advancing excellence across HBCUs.

Once a Fellow, always a Fellow.

Today, we celebrate 2024 HBCU ELI Fellow, Dr. Rick W. Smith Sr., who was named President of Dallas College Northlake in 2025. 👏🏾

Dr. Smith’s leadership journey reflects a continued commitment to student achievement, institutional growth, and transformational leadership in higher education.

At HBCU ELI, we are proud to celebrate leaders who continue to shape institutions, empower students, and strengthen the future of higher education across the country.

Once a Fellow, always a Fellow.

Today, we celebrate 2024 HBCU ELI Fellow, Dr. Monique Guillory, President of Dillard University.

Dr. Guillory’s leadership journey reflects the power of transformational leadership, dedication to student success, and a continued commitment to institutional excellence.

What makes this especially meaningful is that Dr. Guillory, stepped into this role following the leadership of 2021 HBCU ELI Fellow, Dr. Rochelle Ford.

Two women in leadership.
Two HBCU ELI Fellows.
One POWERFUL impact.

At HBCU ELI, we are proud to celebrate leaders who continue to shape institutions, empower students, and strengthen the future of HBCUs across the country.

Once a Fellow, always a Fellow.

Today, we celebrate 2022 HBCU ELI Fellow, Dr. Said Sewell, who became the 11th President of Morris College in 2024. 👏🏾

Dr. Sewell’s leadership journey reflects a strong commitment to educational excellence, student success, and advancing the mission of HBCUs through visionary leadership.

At HBCU ELI, we are proud to celebrate leaders who continue to shape institutions, empower students, and strengthen the future of HBCUs across the country.

Once a Fellow, always a Fellow.

Today, we celebrate 2021 HBCU ELI Fellow, Dr. Rochelle Ford, who served as the 8th President of Dillard University for two years.

Dr. Ford’s leadership journey reflects the impact of visionary leadership, innovation, and a continued commitment to advancing higher education and empowering students.

At HBCU ELI, we are proud to celebrate leaders who continue to shape institutions, empower students, and strengthen the future of HBCUs across the country.

Once a Fellow, always a Fellow.

Leadership doesn’t start at the presidency, it starts with preparation, mentorship, and community.

At HBCU ELI, we are proud to support leaders who are shaping the future of higher education across the country.

Over the next two weeks, we will highlight Fellows who have gone on to serve as Presidents, leading institutions with vision, purpose, and impact.

Their journeys reflect the power of investing in leadership and the importance of building strong pipelines for the next generation.

Because when HBCU leaders rise, entire communities rise with them.

Stay tuned as we spotlight the leaders continuing the legacy. 👏🏾

19. That's the number of sitting HBCU presidents who are proud graduates of ELl programs.

19 institutions.

19 communities.

19 legacies - and counting.

This is what investing in leadership looks like.

The Community of Fellows Pinning Ceremony is almost here. SAVE THE DATES!

This June, the Class of 2026 will be recognized for completing a transformative series of seminars designed to strengthen the next generation of HBCU leadership.

And this is only the beginning.

Following the pinning ceremony, the cohort will continue their journey toward graduation this November as they prepare to lead, serve, and shape the future of HBCUs across the country.

More details coming soon.

🗓 SAVE THE DATE!

In less than 50 days, the Class of 2026 will complete a transformative series of seminars designed to prepare them for the next chapter in HBCU leadership.

These are not just graduates, they are the future change-makers who will help shape the future of HBCUs across the country.

More details coming soon.