Coppin State University has named a North Carolina Central University Eagle as leader of its enterprise. Anthony Jenkins, Ph.D., ’95, was appointed president of the institution and will begin in his new role on May 26, 2020.
Prior to his appointment, Jenkins served as president at West Virginia State University (WSU). Jenkins joined WSU in 2016 as the university’s 11th president. Under his leadership, the university established nursing and engineering programs. He also oversaw a $10 million renovation that included a new research building.
Before joining WSU, he was senior associate vice president for Student Development and Enrollment Services at the University of Central Florida.
Jenkins’ experience in higher education also includes serving as vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). During his time at UMES, the university developed and implemented a comprehensive retention plan resulting in an increase in first-to-second and second-to-third year retention.
He has held a number of leadership roles in higher education, including dean of students at the University of Houston Clear Lake, associate dean of students at Northeastern Illinois University, area coordinator at Virginia Tech University and admission and financial aid advisor at Jackson State University.
Prior to his career in higher education, Jenkins was an air defense artillery specialist for the United States Army.
Jenkins obtained a master’s degree in criminology from NCCU. He also earned bachelor’s degree in criminal justice/sociology from Fayetteville State University and a doctoral degree in educational leadership and policy studies from Virginia Tech University.
