Virginia State University has appointed Tiffani-Dawn Sykes as the new associate vice president for intercollegiate athletics. Sykes, an alumna, brings over 20 years of experience in college sports to her alma mater.

“I am honored to return to Virginia State University, where Greater Happens Here, as the Associate Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics,” said Sykes. She thanked President Abdullah and the search committee for believing in her leadership in guiding Trojan Athletics.

Sykes comes back to VSU after a successful stint as a player development assistant at the University of Maryland. Previously, she made history as Florida A&M University’s first female vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics from 2023 to 2024. She has held important positions in various Division I and II colleges throughout her career.

“Virginia State University athletics has a long history of excellence, and I am confident in Tiffani-Dawn Sykes’ ability to uphold that tradition,” said VSU President Dr. Makola M. Abdullah. “Her values, vision, professional experience, and passion for our University made her a perfect fit for this role. We are extremely fortunate to have her back home as a member of our Trojan Family.”

Sykes has actively participated in various NCAA committees, including the NCAA Leaders and Legends Selection Committee and the NCAA Olympic Sports Liaison Committee. Her dedication to college athletics has earned her several awards in recent years, including the 2024 Women Leaders NIKE Executive of the Year Award and the City of Tallahassee Community Champion Award.

Additionally, Sykes has worked through prestigious programs to support minority athletics administrators. She holds a Master’s in sports administration from Grambling State University and a Bachelor’s in health and physical education from VSU. As a student-athlete at VSU, Sykes was a volleyball team captain and competed in track and field.

“My experiences as a student-athlete at VSU ignited my passion for college athletics, and the education I received here laid the foundation for a fulfilling and progressive career,” said Sykes. “I am excited to continue leading our student-athletes, coaches, and staff in the pursuit of national excellence—both in the classroom and in competition.”

Sykes will officially assume her role on March 31. She will succeed the late Peggy Davis, who contributed nearly 30 years to Trojan Athletics and left a profound impact on the VSU community when she passed away in October 2024.