Wilberforce University is proud to welcome the new Dean of the College of Engineering and Special Assistant to the President, Chance M. Glenn Sr., Ph.D. to the Wilberforce University family. Dr. Glenn is a renowned engineer, scientist, educator, inventor, entrepreneur, and academic leader.
With more than three decades of experience spanning higher education, government research, industry, and technology innovation, Dr. Glenn has built a national reputation for advancing engineering education, scientific discovery, workforce development, and institutional transformation.
Prior to joining Wilberforce University, Dr. Glenn served as Professor and Research Director of the Space Engineering, Technology, and Innovation (SETI) Laboratory at Alabama A&M University, where he led research initiatives in advanced propulsion, space engineering, and applied physics while mentoring future engineers and scientists. He previously served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at the University of Houston-Victoria, leading academic strategy, accreditation initiatives, organizational transformation, and new program development. Earlier, as Dean of the College of Engineering, Technology and Physical Sciences at Alabama A&M University, he oversaw significant growth in enrollment, research funding, and student success while helping elevate one of the nation’s leading HBCU STEM programs.
Dr. Glenn’s academic and professional journey reflects a deep commitment to innovation. Before his senior leadership roles, he held faculty, research, and administrative positions at the Rochester Institute of Technology, where he founded and directed multiple research centers focused on communications technology, signal processing, and interdisciplinary innovation. He has also served as an electrical engineer with the U.S. Army Research Laboratory, where his research explored microwave systems, nonlinear dynamics, and advanced technologies for defense applications.
An accomplished researcher and inventor, Dr. Glenn has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and holds multiple patents and patent applications in fields including telecommunications, signal processing, nonlinear dynamical systems, advanced communications technologies, and engineering innovation. His more recent work has explored groundbreaking concepts related to gravitational wave generation, advanced propulsion systems, and spacetime engineering.
Beyond his scientific contributions, Dr. Glenn is a prolific author, speaker, and thought leader whose work bridges science, leadership, faith, and personal development. Through books, lectures, and public engagement, he has consistently worked to make complex scientific and technological concepts accessible to broader audiences while inspiring future generations of innovators.
Dr. Glenn earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Maryland, along with both a Master of Science and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from The Johns Hopkins University. He has also completed executive leadership studies through Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education and the American Academic Leadership Institute.
Throughout his career, Dr. Glenn has remained dedicated to expanding educational opportunities, strengthening pathways into STEM fields, and preparing students to solve society’s most pressing challenges. His leadership philosophy aligns closely with Wilberforce University’s historic mission of academic excellence, innovation, and service.
“As we continue to build on Wilberforce University’s rich legacy while positioning our students for success in a rapidly evolving world, Dr. Glenn’s expertise and vision will be invaluable,” says Dr. Vann R. Newkirk, President of Wilberforce University. “His commitment to research, innovation, and student achievement reflects the very best of what Wilberforce aspires to be.”
As Professor of Engineering and Special Assistant to the President, Dr. Glenn will play a key role in supporting the University’s academic initiatives, expanding STEM opportunities, strengthening strategic partnerships, and helping shape the next chapter of institutional growth and excellence.
Wilberforce University proudly welcomes Dr. Chance M. Glenn, Sr. to the Bulldog family and looks forward to the impact of his leadership on students, faculty, and the broader Wilberforce community. For more information on Wilberforce University visit Wilberforce.edu.
Media Contact
Lena Arnold
larnold@wilberforce.edu
937-708-5532
