Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon, Ed.D., of North Carolina Central University (NCCU), will be honored with the 2024 President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing her commitment to service and public higher education. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 4 – 6 p.m. at the NCCU Student Center, 507 Nelson Street.
Established by former President George H. Bush, the award celebrates those who have dedicated thousands of hours to helping others. Chancellor Dixon, with more than two decades of leadership in public higher education, has held various roles within the University of North Carolina System. She began her appointment as chancellor of NCCU on July 1, 2024.
"Receiving this award is a humbling reminder of the impact we can make when we lead with purpose and compassion,” said Dixon. “It has always been my mission to open doors for others, especially in higher education, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue this important work."
Among her accomplishments is revitalizing Elizabeth City State University (ECSU). Appointed chancellor in 2018, she reversed a 60% enrollment decline and accreditation warning within just six months, boosting enrollment by 70% and securing $25 million in private donations. During her tenure as vice president for academic and student affairs for the UNC System, she led statewide programs like the College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) Pathways and the federally funded NC State Approving Agency.
Dixon is a member of The Links, Incorporated, Jack and Jill of America and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She sits on the board of Project Kitty Hawk, a nonprofit that collaborates with public universities to increase the number of adult (25+) learners, and the Research Triangle Park Foundation. She is also a recipient of the Old North State Award, one of the highest honors granted by the State of North Carolina.
Dixon earned a doctorate in higher education administration from North Carolina State University. A first-generation college student herself, her research focused on how to help first-generation students seamlessly navigate from high school to college.
Also being honored from NCCU is LeVelle Moton, head men’s basketball coach. In addition to being basketball coach with the most wins in NCCU history, Moton leads the Velle Cares Foundation which helps Triangle families get jobs, education and community assistance. He also has been active in creating affordable housing.
