Spelman College Just Named AI Pioneer and Former NASA Engineer Dr. Ayanna Howard as Its 12th President

Spelman College announced Friday that it has named Dr. Ayanna Howard its 12th president, selecting a roboticist, entrepreneur, and former NASA engineer to lead the Atlanta institution. Howard will assume the role on August 1, 2026.

Howard joins Spelman from The Ohio State University, where she serves as dean of the College of Engineering and holds the Monte Ahuja Endowed Dean’s Chair. Her career spans NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the Georgia Institute of Technology, industry, and entrepreneurship, with expertise in robotics, artificial intelligence, and human-centered technology.

She is the co-founder of Zyrobotics and Black in Robotics, has authored more than 300 publications, and was named to Forbes’ America’s Top 50 Women in Tech. She has been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the National Academy of Inventors, and serves on the boards of Brown University, Autodesk, and Motorola Solutions.

“I am deeply honored and excited to join Spelman College, and the amazing faculty, staff, and trustees that have shaped generations of Black women,” said Dr. Howard. “Students choose Spelman because they want to make a difference in the world, and as the world changes, we must equip them to thrive. At a time when technology, the workforce, and society are evolving rapidly, Spelman’s mission has never been more important. I look forward to building on the College’s legacy while honoring its tradition, values, and sisterhood.”

She succeeds interim president Rosalind “Roz” Brewer, C’84. Following her tenure as interim president, Brewer will continue as Co-Chair of the Spelman Forward campaign, supporting the completion of the College’s fundraising effort and long-term strategic vision.

Dr. Howard’s appointment continues Spelman’s mission of preparing Black women to lead in a changing world.