Spelman College has chosen a leader whose career reflects innovation, excellence, and a commitment to expanding opportunities in technology. The historic HBCU announced that Dr. Ayanna Howard, a nationally recognized roboticist and artificial intelligence pioneer, will become its 12th president on August 1.
The appointment places one of the country’s most respected technology leaders at the helm of the nation’s top-ranked historically Black college for women. It also signals Spelman’s continued focus on preparing Black women for leadership in a rapidly changing world shaped by technology and innovation.
Dr. Ayanna Howard Brings STEM and AI Leadership to Spelman College
Dr. Howard currently serves as dean of the College of Engineering at The Ohio State University, where she holds the Monte Ahuja Endowed Dean’s Chair. Throughout her career, she has built an impressive record across higher education, entrepreneurship, government, and industry.
Her experience includes work at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and leadership roles at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Beyond academia, she has become widely known for advancing robotics and artificial intelligence while encouraging greater diversity in technology fields.
The Spelman College Board of Trustees announced her appointment after a national search that included input from trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumnae, and other stakeholders.
Spelman College Sees Dr. Howard as a Visionary Leader
Spelman leaders believe Howard is uniquely positioned to guide the institution through its next chapter. The college is entering a period where technological literacy and innovation are becoming increasingly important across every industry.
Lovette Russell, chair of the Spelman College Board of Trustees, praised Howard’s ability to honor the institution’s history while preparing it for the future.
“Dr. Howard is the visionary leader Spelman needs at this pivotal moment in our history,” Russell said. “Throughout this search process, we sought a leader who would honor Spelman’s legacy while boldly advancing our future, and Dr. Howard embodies that vision.”
Russell also emphasized Howard’s commitment to helping Black women become leaders and change makers in an evolving global landscape.
Dr. Howard Focuses on Preparing Black Women for the Future
Howard said she is eager to build upon Spelman’s long tradition of excellence while helping students succeed in a world shaped by rapid technological change.
“I am deeply honored and excited to join Spelman College, and the amazing faculty, staff, and trustees that have shaped generations of Black women,” Howard said.
She highlighted the importance of preparing students for future opportunities and challenges.
“Students choose Spelman because they want to make a difference in the world, and as the world changes, we must equip them to thrive,” Howard said.
She added that technology, society, and the workforce are evolving quickly, making Spelman’s mission even more important today.
AI Pioneer and Entrepreneur Expands Opportunities in Robotics
Howard’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. She co-founded Zyrobotics, a company that develops educational and therapeutic technologies for children with special needs.
She also co-founded Black in Robotics, an organization focused on increasing representation in the robotics profession. Through these efforts, she has helped create pathways for underrepresented groups in science and technology.
Her achievements have earned national recognition. Howard has authored more than 300 publications and was named to Forbes’ list of America’s Top 50 Women in Tech.
Spelman College Builds on a Legacy of Black Women Excellence
Howard takes over from interim president Rosalind “Roz” Brewer, who expressed confidence in the college’s future under its new leadership.
“As we continue to invest in Spelman’s future through initiatives like Spelman Forward, I am confident Dr. Howard will build upon this strong foundation and help lead Spelman to even greater heights,” Brewer said.
The leadership transition comes during another milestone period for the institution. Spelman is celebrating its 19th consecutive year as the nation’s top-ranked HBCU. The college also remains one of the leading producers of Black women who earn doctoral degrees in STEM fields.
With a renowned AI expert now leading the institution, Spelman is positioning itself to strengthen its influence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while continuing its mission of empowering generations of Black women leaders.
