Nationally recognized AI pioneer, former NASA engineer named president of Spelman College

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — Spelman College has named a nationally recognized robotics and artificial intelligence leader and former NASA engineer as its 12th president, the school’s board of trustees announced.

Dr. Ayanna Howard joins Spelman from Ohio State University, where she is dean of the College of Engineering. She has held roles in higher education, government and industry, including work at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Georgia Tech.

“Dr. Howard is the visionary leader Spelman needs at this pivotal moment in our history,” said trustee chair Lovette Russell.

Howard called the appointment “deeply” meaningful.

“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,” Howard said. “I look forward to building on the College’s legacy while honoring its tradition, values, and sisterhood.”

She will begin Aug. 1, 2026.