Spelman College has announced the appointment of Dr. Ayanna Howard as the institution’s 12th president, ushering in a new chapter for the nation’s top-ranked historically Black college and university (HBCU). Howard, an internationally recognized roboticist, entrepreneur, and higher education leader, will officially assume the presidency on August 1, 2026.
She succeeds Interim President Rosalind “Roz” Brewer, who has led the college during a period of significant growth and national recognition.