Dr. Ayanna Howard

Incoming President (12th) of @SpelmanCollege | Roboticist, AI pioneer | Advancing innovation and Black women’s leadership

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

We’re celebrating 30 years of the Spelman College Art Collection! The arts have always been part of Spelman’s story, from Hale Woodruff and Nancy Elizabeth Prophet to today’s leading Black women artists shaping creativity, scholarship, and imagination. https://t.co/jHKkre1j7I

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

Last week, we celebrated AUC-GRANTED Activation Week by bringing researchers, innovators, faculty, staff, and students from across the AUC to strengthen research capacity, advance innovation, and foster collaboration across our institutions. https://t.co/c22dncTl8o

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

We’re excited for the reboot of A Different World! The original brought HBCU life into living rooms, boosting visibility, cultural pride, and interest in our colleges. Last week, we were glued to our screens to experience Hillman all over again!

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

Sydni Tennant and Trinity Delis Smith remind us talent is everywhere. From Stafford, VA and LaPlace, LA, to Spelman, their journeys reflect the power of STARS College Network to open doors for rural and small-town students. We’re honored to welcome them! https://t.co/sQKRnRDwkE

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

Congratulations to Dr. Cheryl Finley on receiving the 2026 David C. Driskell Prize, one of the nation’s leading honors in African American art and art history. This recognition reflects her scholarship, leadership, and lasting contributions to the field.
https://t.co/9LYNdFsnyH

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

Twenty years as the nation’s No. 1 HBCU is a remarkable achievement and a testament to Spelman’s sustained excellence. The milestone reflects the dedication of our students, faculty, staff and alumnae and their commitment to academic excellence and success https://t.co/Ku22nlW7ow

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

It was an extraordinary honor to be in the presence of two trailblazers, Julie Dash and Dr. Ayoka Chenzira. They reminded us of what's possible when Black women author their own narratives, preserve our stories and imagine boldly. A masterclass in sisterhood and mastery.

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

Spelman continues to lead the way in creating pathways for Black women to shape the future of STEM. Last week's Black Women in STEM Summit brought scholars, students, and partners together to build connections and turn vision into practice. The future is being built here.

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

I'm proud to see Spelman students embracing the world beyond our gates. This year, 498 students studied abroad in 35 countries across five continents — a 31% increase. These experiences prepare our students to lead in an increasingly connected world.
https://t.co/PiHRYcV8zM

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

What an accomplishment for MaKyra Wilson, C'2027! Her research at Harvard marks a scientific first and could help advance how we understand tuberculosis drug resistance. Proud to see this Spelmanite making her mark. https://t.co/KPqdPoUcZa

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

I was honored to join colleagues at the inaugural ACM AI Leadership Summit. As AI shapes our classrooms, workplaces, healthcare and communities, we have a responsibility to help build a future where technology advances opportunity and keeps people at the center.

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

Congratulations to Art Frazier and Dr. Na’Taki Osborne Jelks on this recognition! Their leadership shows sustainability is an investment in our students, communities and our future. Proud to see Spelman leading in sustainability and environmental justice. https://t.co/Kk78R3tcWV

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

A secure campus provides the foundation our scholars need to learn, lead and thrive. We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman @RepNikema, along with Senators @SenOssoff and @SenatorWarnock, for securing a transformative $437,000 federal investment in Spelman College’s safety.

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

It’s been an amazing first month! Every conversation, welcome and moment of connection during these first 30 days has reinforced the spirit of this remarkable community. I’m excited for what we’ll build together.

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

Being named Forbes’ No. 2 private HBCU is a moment to celebrate! It affirms what we know: Spelman prepares women to lead, innovate and create impact. To our students, faculty, staff and alumnae: this is your achievement. Read more on our News Center: https://t.co/HFTX2UArMx

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

One week down, and what a joy it has been to welcome our Spelmanites back! Campus is alive with energy, purpose and the Spelman spirit. Thank you to our students, faculty and staff for a wonderful start. We have so much to look forward to. Here’s to a wonderful semester ahead!

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

Opening Convocation is a special moment. It marks the start of a new academic year. Last week, I welcomed the Class of 2030 and celebrated faculty whose teaching, scholarship and service shape our community. I look forward to all we will learn, build and accomplish together.

[Dr. Ayanna Howard @SpelmanPres1881]

Stepping onto this historic campus as your 12th president fills me with immense gratitude. I’m eager to partner with our students, faculty, staff and alumnae to shape our future. Class of 2030: Welcome. You earned your place here! Great things are ahead.