According to a report from Ernie Suggs of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Dr. Helene D. Gayle, president of Spelman College, has taken an immediate personal leave of absence.
The reasons behind Gayle’s departure are currently unknown.
In a letter to the Spelman community, Board of Trustees Chair Lovette T. Russell assured that the college’s operations will continue smoothly during Gayle’s absence.
“We deeply value your continued support and will provide any pertinent updates as they become available,” Russell stated.
Dr. Gayle’s leave comes amid a period of significant success for Spelman College. For the 18th consecutive year, U.S. News & World Report ranked the institution the top HBCU in the country.
In addition, Spelman received a historic $100 million donation earlier this year from philanthropist Rhonda Stryker and her husband William Johnston in celebration of the college’s centennial name change.
Gayle, who became Spelman’s 11th president in July 2022 and is the first medical doctor to hold the position, was previously president and CEO of The Chicago Community Trust.
During her short tenure, she helped guide the institution through a period of growth and recognition.
During Gayle’s leave, Spelman alumna Rosalind “Roz” Brewer will step in as interim president. Brewer, who was formerly the CEO of Walgreens and COO of Starbucks, is a member of Spelman’s Board of Trustees and brings a wealth of leadership experience to the role.
In 2022, she was named one of Forbes’ Power Women and holds board positions with major companies like Lockheed Martin and Molson Coors.
In a statement to the Board of Trustees, Brewer said:
“My focus is on guiding Spelman forward by supporting leadership, maintaining stability, and ensuring we continue to meet the needs of our students. It’s a privilege to give back to the institution that has given me so much.”
This transition comes as Spelman continues to build on its historic legacy, cementing its place as a leader in higher education and the HBCU community.
