Knoxville College has appointed Rotesha Harris as its new president. The college announced that under her leadership, its primary aim will be to restore its accreditation, which it has not held for over two decades.
“I am deeply honored to serve as the 32nd president of Knoxville College,” said Dr. Harris. “As we approach this historic milestone of 150 years, I am committed to ensuring that Knoxville College continues to be a beacon of opportunity and excellence. Together, we will strengthen our foundation and work diligently to regain accreditation, ensuring a vibrant future for generations to come.”
While specific details about Harris’s career have not been fully disclosed, she brings nearly 20 years of experience in higher education. Notably, her recent dissertation at Clark Atlanta University focused on the resilience of historically Black colleges during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Eric Barnes, the Knoxville College Board of Trustees chairman, expressed confidence in Harris’s capabilities. “We are thrilled to have Dr. Harris at the helm during this transformative time,” he stated. “Her unmatched skill set, dedication to academic excellence, and strong work ethic make her the perfect leader to usher Knoxville College into its next chapter of growth and achievement.”
Harris takes over after Leonard Adams, who was appointed as interim president in 2021 before transitioning to a formal presidential role in 2022, resigned in June. Since then, Harris has been serving as the interim president.
Leading the Way to Recovery
Knoxville College has faced significant financial difficulties, low enrollment, and deteriorating facilities. The college currently offers online classes to a limited number of students, and its once-bustling campus now stands largely vacant. Tragically, the college’s loss of Elnathan Hall, a key historic building, to fire on November 4 has compounded the institution’s challenges.
In recent years, Knoxville College has made steps towards revitalization, including applying for reaccreditation. The college’s leadership hopes that under Harris’s direction, it can recover from its past setbacks and emerge as a thriving educational institution for future generations.
