Spelman College has appointed renowned artificial intelligence pioneer, entrepreneur, and former NASA engineer Dr. Ayanna Howard as its next president, signaling a significant leadership transition at the nation’s top-ranked historically Black college for women.
The Spelman College Board of Trustees announced Friday that Howard will become the institution’s 12th president, succeeding interim President Rosalind Brewer. She is set to officially assume office on August 1.
A Leader in AI, Robotics, and STEM Innovation
Howard currently serves as dean of the College of Engineering at The Ohio State University and is widely recognized for her groundbreaking work in robotics, artificial intelligence, and human-centered technology design.
Her career spans academia, industry, and government, including senior roles at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the Georgia Institute of Technology. She has also established herself as a prominent voice in efforts to expand diversity in STEM fields.
“Dr. Howard is the visionary leader Spelman needs at this pivotal moment in our history,” said Lovette Russell, chair of the Spelman College Board of Trustees.
Russell stressed Howard’s leadership experience and her commitment to developing future generations of Black women leaders.
A Mission Focused on the Future
In a statement, Howard expressed enthusiasm about joining Spelman College and helping prepare students for a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
“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.
The appointment follows a nationwide search process that included input from trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumnae, and other stakeholders.
Entrepreneurial and Advocacy Work
Beyond her academic leadership, Howard is the co-founder of Zyrobotics, a company focused on developing educational and therapeutic technologies for children with special needs.
She is also the co-founder of Black in Robotics, an organization dedicated to increasing representation in robotics and engineering fields.
Her work has earned national recognition, including being named one of America’s Top 50 Women in Tech by Forbes.
Strengthening a Legacy of Excellence
The leadership change comes during a period of sustained national prominence for Spelman College, which has been ranked the No. 1 HBCU in the United States by U.S. News & World Report for 19 consecutive years.
The college is also recognized as one of the leading producers of Black women earning doctoral degrees in STEM disciplines.
Outgoing interim president Rosalind Brewer said she is confident Howard will continue to advance Spelman’s mission and build on its momentum.
As Howard prepares to take the helm, her appointment is being viewed as a pivotal moment for both the college and the broader conversation around Black women’s leadership in science, technology, and higher education.
