Dr. Julianne Malveaux, president of Bennett College, announced Tuesday that she will be stepping down as the school’s chief executive on May 6. Malveaux, who has led the Greensboro, N.C.-based women’s college since 2007, indicated “her desire to pursue other challenges as the reason for her resignation,” according to a Bennett College statement.
“As I reflect on my accomplishments and of the college’s growth and transformation during my tenure, I realize that it is time for Bennett, and for me, to embark on a new chapter,” Malveaux said. “Five years is the longest time I’ve ever held a job in my life, and, while I remain committed to HBCUs and the compelling cause of access in higher education, I will actualize that commitment, now, in other arenas.”
An economist by training, Malveaux is an author and popular speaker.
Charles Barrentine, chairman of the school’s board of trustees, praised Malveaux for her service and pointed out Bennett’s progress under her leadership.
“During her tenure, an ambitious $21 million capital improvements program renovated existing facilities and erected four new buildings—the first new construction on campus in 28 years,” Barrentine wrote in a Feb. 28 letter to Bennett alumnae. “She increased enrollment to a historic high of more than 735 students in 2009, expanded alumnae involvement, and enhanced the curriculum with a focus on women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, excellence in communications and global awareness.”
Also under Malveaux’s leadership, Bennett’s accreditation was reaffirmed December 2011 through 2014 by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Malveaux has created a 2020 Master Plan, which recommends construction of a new high-tech library.
