Jackson State University has named Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D., the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. She will join the university’s Executive Cabinet under the leadership of President Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D., as he ushers in a new chapter for the state’s only urban research institution.
“Returning to my home state and alma mater as Provost is an extraordinary honor. I am eager to channel my enthusiasm into ensuring that our students have the tools, resources, and support necessary for a successful academic journey, encompassing the core educational and social facets,” said Gregory. “I look forward to engaging and collaborating with the distinguished faculty and dedicated staff to help amplify the outstanding work underway at Thee I Love – Jackson State University.”
With over 20 years of higher education experience, Gregory formerly served as Associate Provost of Student Success and Diversity at Samford University. In this capacity, she oversaw three high-priority student areas on campus: the Office of Diversity, the Office of Accessibility and Accommodations, and the Academic Success Center, where she was also responsible for managing and approving multiple budgets, ensuring quality “customer care,” and engagement.
Thompson explained that, in considering candidates for the position, he adopted a holistic approach to identifying a leader with a comprehensive academic background and a heightened focus on student success and quality customer care.
“My priority was finding someone who understands the intricacies of academic achievement while also emphasizing customer care for students, faculty, and staff. Dr. Gregory offers an all-encompassing perspective that aligns perfectly with our values at Jackson State,” said Thompson. “Her extensive background and experience in innovative practices uniquely positions her to lead our Division of Academic Affairs. Furthermore, her deep understanding of faculty needs and the dynamics among various constituencies ensures she will foster a collaborative environment.”
At Samford, Gregory served on the Executive Leadership Team, President’s Council, and University Council, playing a pivotal role in developing the university’s strategic plan. Furthermore, Gregory has served as NCAA Faculty Athletic Representative and participated in more than 20 faculty and staff search committees annually.
She also managed the Ragland Scholars Learning Community and directed cultural programming, including chairing the Diversity Action Plan Committee, supervising the IMPACT (Inspiring Multicultural Programming Across Campus Together) Peer Mentoring program, and establishing the Office of Student Success and Diversity (OSSD)-Diversity Faculty Fellows program, among other vital responsibilities and noted accomplishments.
Dr. Gregory’s approachability and insightful leadership are qualities which quickly resonated with the Faculty Senate Executive Committee members during the recent listening session, according to Dr. Dawn Bishop McLin, President of the Faculty Senate.
“Her exceptional rapport with our members, commitment to shared governance, dedication to accountability, innovative vision for progressing global programs and student success were evidenced during her listening session” said McLin. “Her robust experience in higher education brings a refreshing approach to academic and faculty affairs. We are confident in her ability to significantly enhance our institutional mission and Jackson State University’s commitment to academic excellence.”
A native of Columbus, Mississippi, Gregory was a member of Jackson State’s W. E. B. DuBois-Maria Luisa Harvey Alvarez Honors College and graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in chemistry. After earning her doctorate from the Georgia Institute of Technology, she joined Tuskegee University as a chemistry instructor. Two years later, she completed a post-doc in catfish genetics at the United States Department of Agriculture/ARS Division in Stoneville, Mississippi.
Gregory is an associate member of Jack and Jill of America, a family organization dedicated to child development. She also serves as the troop leader for Girl Scouts North-Central Alabama and is a member of the board of trustees at Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School.
As a member of Sixth Avenue Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, Gregory volunteered with the youth department, served on the board of trustees, and currently serves on the scholarship committee and the church’s expansion committee. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and on the regional leadership team as primary advisor to the Samford University chapter. She is also a life member of the Jackson State University National Alumni Association (JSUNAA) and treasurer of the Birmingham Chapter.
Gregory is one of a set of triplets: DeWanda Jones Nelson and Dionne Jones Woody, who are also graduates of Jackson State, like their parents, Henry and Linda Jones.
She is the wife of Jackson State alum Shawn E. Gregory, the proud mother of a college sophomore golfer, Shawnise, an adult “bonus” son, Shawn and two “fur babies” Blake and Milo.
Gregory’s appointment is contingent upon approval by the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning, which will meet on Thursday, June 20.