December 17, 2024 – The University of North Carolina System has announced the formation of a 13-member committee to lead the search for the next chancellor of Elizabeth City State University (ECSU).
Dr. Stephanie Johnson, chair of the ECSU Board of Trustees and a proud 1974 alumna of the university, has been named chair of the search advisory committee. Dr. Johnson also serves as an adjunct professor at Hampton University.
“Elizabeth City State is experiencing a period of incredible growth and transformation, and we’re focused on finding a leader who will continue driving this momentum,” said UNC System President Peter Hans. “This university plays a vital role in northeastern North Carolina, and it’s an institution that inspires pride across the state.”
Dr. Johnson echoed those sentiments, saying, “I’m deeply honored to guide this committee as we seek the next visionary leader for ECSU. The Vikings have an exciting future ahead, and we’re committed to selecting a chancellor who will help propel this institution to even greater heights.”
According to the system website, the committee is composed of a diverse group of ECSU trustees, faculty, staff, students, and alumni, as well as representatives from the UNC Board of Governors and the broader UNC System. A current or former chancellor from another UNC System institution is also included to provide insight and expertise.
The search process will include opportunities for public engagement, such as an online survey and listening sessions. Additionally, forums will be held during the spring semester to gather community input. Further details and updates will be available on the ECSU website.
Search Advisory Committee Members:
- Dr. Stephanie Johnson (’74): Chair of ECSU Board of Trustees and search advisory committee chair
- Pearl Burris-Floyd: UNC Board of Governors secretary
- James Copland IV: ECSU Board of Trustees member
- Kayla Dixon: ECSU Student Government Association president, senior kinesiology major from Charlotte
- Letitia Evans: ECSU Staff Senate chair and director of annual giving
- Rev. James Gailliard: ECSU Board of Trustees member
- Dr. Harold Martin: Former chancellor of North Carolina A&T State University
- Sonja Nichols: Member of the UNC Board of Governors
- Wendy Pierce (’01): Chair of the ECSU Board of Visitors
- Dr. Walter Swan: ECSU Faculty Senate chair and director of choral activities
- Dr. Ivy Taylor: Senior advisor to the president of the UNC System
- Johnny Tillett: ECSU Board of Trustees vice chair
- Paul Tine: ECSU Board of Trustees member