Jackson State University has named Arianna C. Stokes, Ph.D. as the Deputy Transformation Officer in the Office of the President. Stokes, a native of Illinois, will collaborate with university divisions and stakeholders to execute strategic projects, implement innovative educational practices, and ensure alignment with institutional goals.
“I am delighted to return to my alma mater and contribute to advancing JSU under this administration,” Stokes said. “I have great confidence in our direction as an institution, and I am honored to join this team in making significant strides forward. Jackson State holds a special place in my heart, and it is a privilege to serve and lead in this capacity.”
Stokes is a two-time graduate of Jackson State with a multifaceted career in K-12 and higher education, scholarly research and literary contributions. She spent five years in the Jackson Public School System, serving as a member of the Whitten Middle School Leadership Team, lead social studies teacher, and building coordinator for Tools for Life, a social and emotional learning program. During her tenure, Stokes displayed exemplary commitment and expertise, earning recognition as the “Teacher of the Quarter” by the Rotary Club of Jackson. She later taught information and communication technology while preparing eighth-grade students for post-secondary education and the workforce. After earning her doctoral degree, Stokes began her higher education career focusing on eLearning and instructional technology with the Mississippi Community College Board (MCCB).
During her four years at MCCB, Stoke’s innovative approach to faculty development significantly impacted the online learning landscape for faculty and staff across Mississippi’s 15 community colleges. Her emphasis on real-world application, federal regulations and compliance, and faculty experience earned her exceptional feedback from faculty and college administrators. She also played a key role in advancing the education and integration of artificial intelligence tools and resources at MCCB and its partner institutions through insightful presentations and the development of authentic resources.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Stokes to our transformation team,” said Alla Jeanae Frank, Special Assistant to the President and Chief Transformation Officer. “Her expertise in research, instructional technology, and her commitment to innovation will play a pivotal role in advancing our mission and enhancing the student experience. We eagerly anticipate the contributions she will make to our institution.
Stokes has contributed to research, publications, and multimedia exploring education and innovation. In 2023, she was honored as a reviewer for the American Educational Research Association (AERA), shortly after publishing scholarly work in the Journal of Education and Social Policy and the Journal for Advancing Business Education. Additionally, she has published a book and contributed a chapter to the text “Perspective,” published by Corwin Press.
In 2023, Stokes was named to Jackson State’s 40 Under 40 Alpha Cohort, an honor recognizing alumni who demonstrate a strong commitment to the university’s ideals and legacy.
She holds a Bachelor of Science from Jackson State, a master’s degree in educational technology from Belhaven University, and a Doctorate of Higher Education from Jackson State’s Executive Ph.D. Program.