Bonita Brown, WSSU’s First Female Chancellor
Winston Salem State University made history when it installed its 14th and first permanent female chancellor Bonita J. Brown, J.D.
The two-day event, held Friday, Sept. 19, 2025 at the Benton Convention Center in Winston Salem, featured a formal installation ceremony, a community Day of Service, and concluded with a celebration gala and concert.
Installation of Bonita J. Brown, J.D.
Brown recently served as the interim president at Northern Kentucky University. During her tenure, she led the campus through a leadership transition and navigated significant financial challenges and declining enrollments.
She received her Bachelor of Arts in history from Wake Forest University and her Juris Doctor from Wake Forest University School of Law. Her parents, Bern and Freda Hairston, are both WSSU alumni.
The historic weekend concluded with a celebration gala and concert at the Benton Convention Center. Guests experienced an unforgettable night featuring the soulful sounds of recording artist Lalah Hathaway.
About Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem State University fosters the creative thinking, analytical problem-solving, and depth of character needed to transform the world. Rooted in liberal education, WSSU’s curriculum prepares students to be thought leaders who have the skills and knowledge needed to develop innovative solutions to complex problems.
Founded in 1892, WSSU is a historically Black constituent institution of the University of North Carolina with a rich tradition of contributing to the social, cultural, intellectual, and economic growth of North Carolina, the region, and beyond. Guided by the motto, “Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve,” WSSU develops leaders who advance social justice by serving the world with compassion and commitment.
For more information, visit www.wssu.edu.
