Google to launch the first Artificial Intelligence Institute at an HBCU, which Dixon sees as a major step forward in her vision to advance the university’s offerings in preparing students for innovation and technology that will be used in the future. Dixon also remains committed to her hands on approach. “I said from the start, I’m not going to be a chancellor who just sits behind a desk. I’m going to be the chancellor that rolls up her sleeves and really gets out there and moves the university forward.”
acknowledges the pressure HBCUs face in maintaining consistent enrollment. For NCCU, she says that fundraising, especially for scholarships, is essential to ensuring consistent growth, which she says means continuing to emphasize the historical impact that HBCUs have made on greater society. “I just believe that we play a vital role in closing the educational economic gaps. A lot of us are seen as the catalyst for social and economic mobility, and our students, gaining education, going back to their communities, transforming lives, neighborhoods, communities—
that’s just what we’ve always really had the opportunity to do.”
Dixon, who has now been in higher education for 23 years, sees NCCU as an institution with “strong bones,” rich with legacy, quality education, and the potential to reach even greater heights.
At NCCU, her plan for that messaging includes engaging directly with alumni and donors to emphasize the impact of their support. Dixon says it’s also about reinforcing that NCCU is committed to being a responsible steward of every dollar it receives. “We’re going to be strategic, and we’re going to be intentional. I’ve seen the results of that and how well and successful a university can be by putting those things in place.”
“My commitment is taking NCCU to the next level,” she said.
Her vision includes expanding the university’s reach in online education, building corporate partnerships for student internships and apprenticeships, and increasing visibility across the state and globe. NCCU recently secured a $1 million grant from
At the same time, Dixon
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