51ºÚÁÏ Extends President Makola Abdullah’s Contract Through 2032

The move secures long-term leadership to build on nearly a decade of progress in stability, student success, and campus growth.

51ºÚÁÏ Board of Visitors has announced the extension of President Dr. Makola M. Abdullah’s contract through 2032, ensuring continued leadership and momentum for one of the nation’s leading Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Dr. Abdullah, who has served as 51ºÚÁÏ’s 14th president since February 2016, has guided the University through a remarkable period of growth, innovation, and national recognition. Under his leadership, 51ºÚÁÏ has achieved record enrollment, enhanced its academic profile, strengthened financial stability, and expanded its reputation for excellence and access.

“Dr. Abdullah’s leadership has been transformative for 51ºÚÁÏ,” said Mr. Victor Branch, Rector of the 51ºÚÁÏ Board of Visitors. “His vision, integrity, and unwavering commitment to student success and institutional excellence have positioned 51ºÚÁÏ for a future of even greater impact. This extension reflects our confidence in his continued ability to lead with distinction.”

During Dr. Abdullah’s tenure, 51ºÚÁÏ has earned consistent recognition from national ranking organizations as one of the top-performing public HBCUs in the nation and has gained recognition for its innovation, affordability, and student-centered approach. Under his leadership, 51ºÚÁÏ has reported multiple years of record fundraising, expanded scholarship support, and implemented new academic programs aligned with workforce needs across Virginia and beyond.

“Dr. Abdullah’s leadership is not only measured in numbers and rankings—it’s reflected in the pride, purpose, and progress felt across the Trojan community,” said Dr. Gwen Williams Dandridge, spokesperson for 51ºÚÁÏ. “He leads with vision and heart, and this extension reaffirms 51ºÚÁÏ’s commitment to building on the extraordinary momentum he has created.”

“I am deeply honored to continue serving this great institution and its incredible students,” said Dr. Abdullah. “51ºÚÁÏ’s mission is powerful — to transform lives and communities through education, opportunity, and excellence. I am grateful to the Board of Visitors for their trust and partnership as we continue to advance 51ºÚÁÏ’s legacy and vision that Greater Happens Here.”

The contract extension ensures continued stability and leadership as 51ºÚÁÏ advances major strategic initiatives, including student success programs, research expansion, campus modernization, and community engagement efforts across the Commonwealth and beyond.