Spelman College Selects Ayanna Howard to Lead as 12th President
Spelman College, a leading historically Black college for women in Atlanta, Georgia, has appointed Dr. Ayanna Howard as its 12th president. The announcement came on June 5, 2026, from the institution's Board of Trustees. Dr. Howard, a prominent roboticist and artificial intelligence expert, will assume the role on August 1, 2026, succeeding interim President Rosalind Brewer.
This leadership transition highlights the college's commitment to advancing STEM education and preparing Black women for influential roles in technology and higher education. Dr. Howard brings extensive experience from academia, industry, and research institutions, including prior positions at NASA and Georgia Tech.
Background on Dr. Ayanna Howard's Professional Journey
Dr. Howard earned her undergraduate degree from Brown University. She later obtained master's and doctoral degrees in electrical engineering from the University of Southern California, followed by an MBA from Claremont Graduate University. Her early career included work as an engineer at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, where she contributed to robotics projects focused on space exploration and human-robot interaction.
She spent 15 years at Georgia Tech, advancing through faculty roles and establishing programs in healthcare robotics. During this period, she founded initiatives that trained students in assistive technologies. Dr. Howard later served as dean of the College of Engineering at The Ohio State University, holding the Monte Ahuja Endowed Dean's Chair. In that capacity, she oversaw curriculum development, faculty recruitment, and research expansion in engineering disciplines.
Her scholarly output exceeds 300 publications, covering topics in robotics, artificial intelligence, and human-centered design. These contributions emphasize creating technology that benefits diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities.
Key Achievements in Robotics and Entrepreneurship
Dr. Howard co-founded Zyrobotics, a company developing educational and therapeutic robots for children with special needs. The venture applies her research in accessible technology to real-world applications, supporting inclusive learning environments.
She also co-founded Black in Robotics, an organization aimed at increasing diversity and opportunity in the robotics field. This initiative addresses representation gaps by providing mentorship, networking, and advocacy for underrepresented groups in STEM professions.
Her connection to Spelman predates the presidency. Dr. Howard became the first external funder of the SpelBots, the college's award-winning robotics team. She has mentored Spelman students in summer robotics programs, fostering hands-on experience in engineering and innovation.
Context of the Appointment at Spelman College
Spelman College maintains a strong emphasis on liberal arts education with robust STEM offerings. The institution has a history of producing leaders in science, technology, and public service. The selection of Dr. Howard aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen engineering and technology programs while upholding the college's mission of empowering Black women.
The Board of Trustees conducted a national search before selecting Dr. Howard. Her combination of academic leadership, research expertise, and community ties in Atlanta positioned her as a strong fit. She succeeds a line of distinguished presidents, including interim leader Rosalind Brewer and previous president Helene Gayle.
Photo by Ryoo Geon Uk on Unsplash
Implications for STEM Education and HBCUs
The appointment signals broader trends in higher education leadership, where expertise in emerging technologies like robotics and AI increasingly informs institutional strategy. At Spelman, Dr. Howard is expected to expand interdisciplinary programs that integrate technology with the college's core values of social responsibility and leadership development.
Historically Black colleges and universities play a vital role in diversifying the STEM workforce. Leaders with technical backgrounds can guide investments in labs, partnerships with industry, and student support services tailored to underrepresented scholars.
Observers note that Dr. Howard's entrepreneurial experience may encourage innovation hubs or startup incubators on campus, building on existing strengths in robotics education.
Perspectives from the Higher Education Community
Reactions from academic and professional circles have emphasized Dr. Howard's qualifications and the symbolic importance of her role. Colleagues at Ohio State and Georgia Tech have highlighted her collaborative approach to leadership and commitment to student success.
Alumni and current Spelman students have expressed enthusiasm about the potential for enhanced mentorship opportunities in engineering fields. The move reinforces Spelman's position as a destination for women pursuing careers at the intersection of technology and social impact.
Future Outlook and Institutional Priorities
Dr. Howard has indicated plans to build on Spelman's legacy while preparing students for a technology-driven world. Priorities likely include advancing research in human-centered AI, strengthening industry collaborations, and supporting faculty development in emerging disciplines.
The transition occurs amid national discussions on the value of liberal arts education alongside technical skills. Spelman's model, combining rigorous academics with leadership training, positions it well for these conversations.
Longer-term impacts may include increased visibility for HBCU engineering programs and new pathways for graduates into robotics, AI ethics, and related sectors.
Broader Trends in University Leadership
College and university boards increasingly seek presidents with diverse professional portfolios, blending traditional academic credentials with industry or entrepreneurial experience. Dr. Howard's profile exemplifies this shift, bringing technical depth to an institution known for holistic student development.
Such appointments can influence curriculum design, research funding strategies, and campus culture around innovation. They also contribute to conversations about equity in STEM leadership pipelines.
Resources for Aspiring Academics and Administrators
Individuals interested in higher education careers can explore opportunities in university administration and faculty positions. Spelman's emphasis on STEM leadership offers a model for how technical expertise translates into executive roles at colleges and universities.
Professionals seeking similar paths often benefit from advanced degrees, research publications, and involvement in professional organizations focused on diversity in technology fields.
