OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
“Education is not only preparation for life — it is the foundation of leadership, service, and impact.”
A Message from the President
A personal message reflecting the mission, vision, and values of the institution.
“Welcome to Wilberforce University. It is my honor to serve as President of an institution with such a rich legacy and powerful mission.
Our commitment is to provide a transformative educational experience that prepares students to lead, innovate, and serve. We are not only focused on academic excellence but also on developing character, integrity, and purpose in every student who walks through our doors.
Together, we are building a future that honors our history while embracing innovation and global opportunity.”
Suo Marte!
Vann R. Newkirk, Ph.D.
Dr. Vann R. Newkirk, Sr., is the 23rd president of Wilberforce University (Wilberforce, Ohio), the nation’s first, private historically Black college university (HBCU).
Prior to the presidency, Dr. Newkirk served as a former president at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. Prior to his presidential appointment at, Fisk, Dr. Newkirk was that university’s provost and vice president of academic affairs.
A native of Elizabethtown, North Carolina who Newkirk initially attended North Carolina A & T. He received his bachelor’s degree in sociology from Barber-Scotia College. He holds a Master of Arts degree in history from Winthrop University, a Master of Science degree from North Carolina Central University, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in history from Howard University.
Currently, Dr. Newkirk is writing a history of African Americans in Alabama. In another written work, “New Life for Historically Black Colleges and Universities” (HBCUs), to improve the long-term viability of HBCUs, he moves to identify their challenges, explore their management systems, and identify models of success. A noted historian, he has written extensively on crime and punishment in North Carolina. He has also authored the 2008 seminal work, “Lynching in North Carolina”, which won the 2009 Willie Parker History Award for the best non-fiction study of North Carolina.
His first priority for Wilberforce is to engage community supporters who can assist in the university’s fund-raising efforts, and solidify student retention and graduation rates which, he says along with premium academic programs, will add value to the university’s distinction among nationally ranked liberal arts colleges.
Presidential Speaking and Event Requests
President Newkirk is committed to engaging with students, alumni, community leaders, and partners in conversations and events that strengthen Wilberforce University and advance the impact and future of HBCUs.
Please complete the Event or Speaking Request Form to invite President Newkirk to participate in your event, discussion, or community engagement opportunity.
To ensure proper consideration and scheduling, major event and speaking requests should be submitted at least six months in advance.
Leadership Priorities
Academic Excellence
Strengthening curriculum quality, faculty development, and research-driven learning environments.
Student Success
Improving retention, graduation rates, and career readiness through enhanced student support systems.
Institutional Growth
Expanding enrollment, infrastructure, funding opportunities, and strategic partnerships.
Community
Building stronger relationships with industry, alumni, and global academic partners.
Impact & Vision in Action
- Strengthening institutional academic standards
- Expanding industry partnerships and collaborations
- Enhancing student engagement and support systems
- Driving strategic planning for long-term university growth
Contact the Office of the President
Office Contact
Denise Brown
Executive Administrative Assistant
(937) 708-5704
dbrown50@wilberforce.edu