Alabama State University Executive and Leadership Team

Leon Howard, the President at Alabama State University, architects the long-term vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Howard oversees the implementation of new academic programs, including the Ph.D. in microbiology and international business initiatives. As the President, Leon Howard engages with the Board of Trustees to secure funding and advance the university's reputation in the competitive higher education landscape. This leadership role involves managing relationships with government officials and community partners to expand the university's regional impact. By prioritizing academic rigor and student success, the President ensures that the institution remains a leader in teacher education and health sciences. Howard directs the allocation of resources to support faculty research and infrastructure development. Through decisive leadership, the President maintains the financial health of the university while fostering an environment of innovation. Howard continues to drive the institution toward greater national prominence through strategic growth and academic excellence.

Triphenia Jones, the Chief of Staff at Alabama State University, coordinates executive communications and manages high-level administrative workflows across the campus. Jones facilitates alignment between the President and various academic departments to ensure institutional goals remain on track. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff enhances operational efficiency within the university framework. Triphenia Jones monitors the execution of strategic initiatives, providing critical support for the expansion of health sciences and microbiology programs. This role requires constant collaboration with faculty leadership to maintain academic standards. Through meticulous oversight of daily operations, the Chief of Staff stabilizes the administrative environment. Jones drives organizational effectiveness by managing complex projects that support the broader mission of the institution. The Chief of Staff remains focused on optimizing resource allocation to benefit the student body and faculty alike, ensuring that administrative functions directly support the long-term growth of the university.

Terence Sims, the Director, Football Operations & Chief of Staff at Alabama State University, manages the logistical requirements and strategic planning for the athletic department. Sims coordinates team travel, equipment procurement, and facility scheduling to ensure peak performance for the football program. As the Director, Football Operations & Chief of Staff, Terence Sims also oversees administrative personnel within the athletic division, fostering a culture of discipline and excellence. This role involves managing budgets and ensuring compliance with collegiate athletic regulations. By integrating athletic operations with the broader university mission, Sims supports the development of student-athletes both on the field and in the classroom. The Director, Football Operations & Chief of Staff maintains strong relationships with external stakeholders to secure resources for program growth. Through rigorous planning and execution, Sims elevates the competitive profile of the university, ensuring that athletic operations contribute positively to the overall institutional reputation.

Genese Lavalais, the Senior Associate AD and Chief of Staff and SWA at Alabama State University, directs gender equity initiatives and oversees compliance within the athletic department. Lavalais manages internal operations and provides leadership for student-athlete welfare programs. As the Senior Associate AD and Chief of Staff and SWA, Genese Lavalais ensures that all athletic activities align with institutional policies and national standards. This role involves supervising support staff and coordinating with the university administration to promote inclusive excellence. By monitoring the academic progress of student-athletes, the Senior Associate AD and Chief of Staff and SWA fosters an environment conducive to graduation and personal development. Lavalais implements strategic plans that enhance the visibility of women's sports programs. Through consistent engagement with the athletic board, the Senior Associate AD and Chief of Staff and SWA drives initiatives that improve the overall experience for the entire student-athlete population.