WSSU names Dr. Stevie L. Lawrence II as next provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs
Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) has announced the appointment of Dr. Stevie L. Lawrence II as its next provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs, effective July 1, 2025.
Lawrence, a nationally recognized leader in higher education, currently serves as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Lincoln University in Missouri. In this role, he is the chief academic officer responsible for leading, planning and implementing the educational and co-curricular programs of the university’s academic enterprise.
His distinguished career includes senior leadership positions at several institutions and organizations committed to academic excellence and student success. Prior to his role at Lincoln, Lawrence served as vice president for postsecondary education at the Southern Regional Education Board; founding dean of university college and interim vice provost for student success and enrollment management at Fort Valley State University; and director of college success services at the University of North Carolina System Office.
Lawrence holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from North Carolina A&T State University, a Master of Public Administration from North Carolina Central University, and a Ph.D. in urban higher education from Jackson State University. He is also a 2022–2023 American Council on Education Fellow, a 2020–2021 Millennium Leadership Initiative Protégé through the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, and a member of the Higher Education Leadership Foundation (HELF).
“Dr. Lawrence brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing higher education today,” said WSSU Chancellor Bonita Brown. “His leadership, vision and commitment to student success align perfectly with WSSU’s mission to transform lives and communities, making him the right leader at the right time for WSSU. We are excited to welcome him to the Ramily.”
Brown expressed gratitude to the members of the Provost’s Search Advisory Group for their diligent efforts during the national search process.
Special thanks were also extended to Dr. Mike McKenzie, who has served as interim provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs since January 6, 2025. “Dr. McKenzie’s steady leadership and unwavering commitment to academic excellence during this transitional period have been invaluable,” Brown said.
Lawrence’s appointment marks a new chapter in WSSU’s academic leadership as the university continues its trajectory of growth and innovation.
