JACKSON – The Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning has selected Dr. Denise Jones Gregory as the 14th president of Jackson State University, the university announced.
Gregory currently serves as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Jackson State. According to the university, she has more than 20 years of experience in higher education.
Before returning to Jackson State, Gregory served as associate provost of student success and diversity at Samford University, where she oversaw the Office of Diversity, the Office of Accessibility and Accommodations and the Academic Success Center. The university said she was also responsible for managing and approving multiple budgets and helping ensure student engagement and customer care.
Jackson State said Gregory also served on Samford’s Executive Leadership Team, President’s Council and University Council, where she played a role in developing the university’s strategic plan. She also served as NCAA faculty athletic representative and participated in more than 20 faculty and staff search committees each year.
Gregory is a native of Columbus, and she earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Jackson State University and a doctorate from the Georgia Institute of Technology, according to the university’s website.
Jackson State said Gregory is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she serves on the regional leadership team as primary adviser to the Samford University chapter. She is also a life member of the Jackson State University National Alumni Association and treasurer of its Birmingham chapter.
