By Jordan Meadows
Staff Writer
NC Central University officially introduced Dr. Karrie Dixon as its new chancellor at a ceremony on Monday at Brant Street and Administration Circle on NC Central’s campus in Durham.
Chancellor Dixon was warmly welcomed by the community, including a performance by the Sound Machine Drumline, cheerleaders, and others, alongside approximately 200 supporters including administrators, students, alumni, and community leaders.
“Student success is really important for us, and also enrollment -- we want students to come to NCCU, where they can get a great education, and go off and do great things. Just like many of our alumni have... It’s an exciting time for us,” Dixon said.
Dixon had anticipated this role, stating it was a dream come true when she was announced as NCCU’s 13th chancellor in June. She emerged as the chosen candidate from a national search that included four finalists, having previously served as chancellor of Elizabeth City State University for the past six years.
“This university is a jewel in the UNC system,” Dixon said. “NCCU may not be the largest HBCU in North Carolina, but it will certainly be the best HBCU.”
Former Chancellor Johnson Akinleye announced his retirement in January. He served as NCCU’s 12th chancellor for eight years.
NCCU has an enrollment of around 7,500 students, with 80% identifying as Black or African American. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
