As President Dr. Helene Gayle leaves her position, Spelman College, a pillar of higher education in Atlanta’s historically Black academic community, is undergoing a leadership shift. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, the esteemed university highlighted Gayle’s resignation following a previously announced personal leave of absence, but the specifics of the sabbatical have not been made public.
Spelman College has put its trust in Roz Brewer, who has been on the board for almost 20 years. Brewer has held a number of positions at the college, including Chair of the Board, and has coordinated the college’s two most successful fundraising campaigns. According to AP News, Brewer has a wealth of corporate leadership experience, including executive positions at Starbucks and Walgreens. With more than 3,000 students enrolled, the college is now looking for a permanent replacement who will carry on Gayle’s dedication to community service and academic performance.
When the news broke on a cool November Thursday, Brewer used the opportunity to thank the departing president. In a video message, Brewer stated, “I join the trustees in extending my gratitude to Dr. Gayle for her service to this amazing institution,” according to AP News. Gayle had a wide-ranging influence on Spelman; she assumed leadership in 2022 upon Mary Schmidt Campbell’s retirement and brought with her extensive experience as an epidemiologist and community leader with the Chicago Community Trust, one of the largest community foundations in the country.
The Spelman trustees are facing a difficult task in their search for Gayle’s successor: finding someone who can continue Dr. Gayle’s legacy, which is evidence of her dedication to advancing both health and education. Despite this, they remain united, supported by Brewer’s willingness to guide the college through this crucial period, her seasoned wisdom proving to be an invaluable asset as highlighted by her deep connection to the school. According to AP News, Brewer said, “I’m also excited to continue my service as your interim president,” indicating her willingness to carry on the Spelman tradition as she sets out to fill the void created by Dr. Gayle’s passing.
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