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Laurence Alexander Nominated to Become Next UAPB Chancellor

2 min read

Laurence B. Alexander has been nominated by University of Arkansas System President Donald Bobbitt to become the next chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

Alexander is the associate dean of the graduate school and director of the Office of Minority Programs at the University of Florida, and was one of four finalists from a nationwide search.

Calvin Johnson has served as interim chancellor since April of last year. According to a UA system news release, Bobbitt will make his recommendation at a special meeting of the UA board of trustees that will be conducted by phone later this week.

If approved, Alexander is expected to begin his new duties on July 1.

“I’m pleased to nominate Dr. Laurence Alexander, who I believe has the right combination of experience and enthusiasm to help shape a positive, successful future for UAPB,” Bobbitt said in the release. “Dr. Alexander understands the important role that UAPB plays in the higher education portfolio of our state and in the Pine Bluff community. It’s a university that has grown and developed throughout the past two decades, and I am excited about the leadership Dr. Alexander will provide to help the campus and its students, faculty and staff achieve at the highest levels. While we know there will be challenges ahead, I look forward to working with Dr. Alexander to ensure a successful future for UAPB.”

A native of New Orleans, Alexander received a bachelor’s degree in drama and communications from the University of New Orleans, a master’s degree in journalism and communications from the University of Florida, a Juris Doctor from Tulane University and a Ph.D. in higher education from Florida State University.

“It’s a high honor to be nominated as the next chancellor of UAPB,” Alexander said. “This university has a proud history as an HBCU that’s committed to student success and academic excellence. I am humbled by the nomination and encouraged by the outstanding opportunity facing UAPB, the Pine Bluff community and the state of Arkansas. I look forward to working with the faculty, staff, students, alumni and community and state leaders to advance the institution to the next level of academic excellence.

“My family and I are excited to get to know everyone at the university and in the Pine Bluff community, and we are anxious to join the traditions of the family of supporters of the Golden Lions.”

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