Jarvis Christian University President to Participate in National HBCU Presidents Panel at BLAC Summit
Jarvis Christian University President Dr. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt will join a distinguished group of leaders from historically Black colleges and universities for the HBCU Presidents Panel at the 2026 BLAC Summit, a national conversation highlighting leadership and innovation across the HBCU community.
The virtual panel, hosted by the Center for the Study of HBCUs at Virginia Union University, will take place Friday, March 13, from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. EDT via Zoom. The session will bring together four prominent HBCU presidents whose institutions are shaping the future of higher education and expanding opportunities for students across the country.
Dr. Lee-Pruitt will join a panel of distinguished leaders that includes Dr. Roslyn Artis, President of Benedict College; Dr. Herman Felton, President of Wiley University; and Dr. Maurice Gipson, President of Philander Smith University. The conversation will be moderated by Dr. Roderick Smothers, Executive Director of the Center for the Study of HBCUs at Virginia Union University.
The BLAC Summit—short for Black Leadership Across Campuses—serves as a platform for thought leaders across the HBCU landscape to engage in meaningful dialogue about the role of historically Black institutions in today’s evolving educational environment. The summit highlights the leadership, innovation, and collaboration that continue to define HBCUs and their enduring impact on students and communities.
During the panel discussion, the participating presidents will share insights on the challenges and opportunities facing HBCUs today, as well as the strategies their institutions are using to promote student success, strengthen institutional sustainability, and advance educational equity. Conversations such as these play an important role in shaping national perspectives on the value and influence of historically Black colleges and universities.
For Jarvis Christian University, Dr. Lee-Pruitt’s participation reflects the institution’s commitment to leadership within the broader HBCU community. Under her leadership, Jarvis has continued to emphasize student-centered initiatives, academic innovation, and partnerships that expand educational and career opportunities for its students.
Historically Black colleges and universities remain vital engines of social mobility, producing leaders in fields such as education, business, science, ministry, public service, and technology. National gatherings like the BLAC Summit provide opportunities for institutional leaders to collaborate, share best practices, and collectively address issues that shape the future of higher education.
The HBCU Presidents Panel also underscores the importance of collective leadership within the HBCU community. By bringing together presidents from institutions across the country, the conversation highlights the shared commitment to advancing educational access and excellence while honoring the historic mission of HBCUs.
Members of the public, higher education professionals, and supporters of HBCUs are invited to attend the virtual session and engage in the conversation. Registration for the event is currently open, and participants can secure their place through the event’s online registration portal.
As Jarvis Christian University continues to strengthen its role as a leader in higher education, the university is proud to see Dr. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt representing the institution in this national dialogue on the future of HBCUs. Her participation reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to collaboration, leadership, and the advancement of opportunities for students across the nation.
To register for the event click here.