Shaw University Names Interim President

Raleigh, NC – Shaw University vice-president for academic affairs, Dr. Paulette Dillard, was announced today (July 17) as Shaw University’s interim president and will serve throughout the duration of a national search for its next president. She replaces Dr. Tashni-Ann Dubroy, who recently announced her resignation from Shaw to assume an executive position at Howard University.

The Board of Trustees called Dillard, who has served in various capacities such as department chair, dean and Vice President for academic affairs at the University, ‘the right fit’ to continue positive institutional gains in academic realignment, community outreach, and university partnerships.

“The Board thinks Dr. Dillard is the ideal selection to lead this institution at this time as she has broad support among faculty, students, and alumni,” said Chairman Bell. “Her experience, the respect she holds among faculty and staff, and the gains she has helped to create throughout the university are invaluable assets as we look to define the next era of leadership for our university while upholding the milestones the university has already achieved.”

Dillard has held senior leadership positions at SmithKline, Quest Diagnostics, and Clark Atlanta University’s Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, with extensive experience in the Health Care Industry – Medical Diagnostics/Research and Development and academic executive direction.

Dillard earned an MBA from Belmont University’s Jack Massey School of Business and a Ph.D. in cell biology from Clark Atlanta University.

“It is my distinguished honor to lead this extraordinary university,” Dillard said. “I look forward to working with the Board to plot continued success in our areas of strength, and to visualize new opportunities to grow Shaw’s brand in workforce development and community support.”

Shaw University, located in North Carolina’s vibrant Downtown Raleigh, is the first historically black institution of higher education in the Southern United States. Founded in 1865 by Dr. Henry Martin Tupper, Shaw is proud to be educating more than 1,800 students who will become the change agents of tomorrow. Our motto is “This is E.P.I.C,” as we are committed to advancing our mission with Entrepreneurial Thinking, Positioning and Presence, Innovation, and Customer Care. Learn more at www.shawu.edu.