Bowie State University Executive and Leadership Team

Daphne Deshields, the Chief Financial Officer at Bowie State University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Overseeing budget allocation and financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer ensures resources align with the strategic goals of the university. This leadership role involves monitoring revenue streams from tuition, grants, and state funding to support campus operations. By maintaining rigorous financial controls, Daphne Deshields directly impacts the availability of student support services and academic programs. Deshields coordinates with department heads to optimize spending and maximize the return on institutional investments. Through the oversight of procurement and payroll, the Chief Financial Officer guarantees operational efficiency across all university divisions. Ultimately, Deshields secures the financial foundation required to foster growth and innovation within the oldest historically black college and university in Maryland.

Aminta Breaux, the President at Bowie State University, provides executive leadership and sets the overarching strategic vision for the institution. Overseeing the university's academic mission and community engagement, the President ensures alignment with the needs of students and the broader Maryland region. This leadership role involves representing the university to stakeholders, donors, and government officials to secure necessary support for growth. By championing academic excellence and student success, Aminta Breaux directly impacts the reputation and national standing of the university. Breaux collaborates with the Board of Trustees to implement long-term initiatives that expand degree offerings and enhance campus facilities. Through the promotion of research and internship opportunities, the President facilitates career readiness for the student body. Ultimately, Breaux drives the institutional progress required to maintain the status of the university as a premier historically black college.

Patricia Ramsey, the Interim President & Provost & Department Chair, Tenured Full of Biology Professor at Bowie State University, manages academic affairs and faculty development. Overseeing the curriculum design and research initiatives, the Interim President & Provost & Department Chair, Tenured Full of Biology Professor ensures high standards of instruction across all departments. This leadership role involves mentoring faculty members and promoting scholarly activity that contributes to the academic prestige of the university. By integrating rigorous scientific inquiry into the student experience, Patricia Ramsey directly impacts the quality of education provided to the student body. Ramsey coordinates with academic deans to refine degree programs and support student retention efforts. Through the oversight of tenure processes and departmental budgets, the Interim President & Provost & Department Chair, Tenured Full of Biology Professor maintains academic integrity. Ultimately, Ramsey drives the intellectual advancement of the institution.

Shansa Barrow, the Communications Specialist & President, Office of at Bowie State University, directs internal and external messaging strategies to enhance the institutional brand. Overseeing public relations and media outreach, the Communications Specialist & President, Office of ensures consistent communication of university achievements and events. This leadership role involves managing digital content, press releases, and community engagement campaigns that highlight the impact of the university. By crafting narratives that resonate with prospective students and alumni, Shansa Barrow directly impacts the visibility and recruitment efforts of the institution. Barrow coordinates with executive leadership to align messaging with the strategic goals of the university. Through the management of official communications, the Communications Specialist & President, Office of protects the reputation of the campus. Ultimately, Barrow drives the public perception and engagement strategies necessary to support the growth of the university.

Oluchi Orajekwe, the President at Bowie State University, focuses on external partnerships and regional economic development initiatives. Overseeing the expansion of corporate internships and industry collaborations, the President ensures students gain practical experience in major metropolitan areas. This leadership role involves cultivating relationships with local businesses and government agencies to create pathways for student career success. By bridging the gap between academic training and workforce requirements, Oluchi Orajekwe directly impacts the employability of graduates. Orajekwe manages strategic alliances that provide funding and resources for specialized research projects. Through the promotion of the university as a hub for innovation, the President strengthens the connection between the campus and the regional economy. Ultimately, Orajekwe drives the external engagement strategy required to enhance the professional opportunities available to the student body and faculty.

Jade Ward, the Junior Class President at Bowie State University, represents the interests of the student body within the university governance structure. Overseeing student-led initiatives and campus events, the Junior Class President ensures that student voices influence institutional decision-making. This leadership role involves organizing activities that foster a vibrant campus life and promote student engagement. By facilitating communication between the student body and the administration, Jade Ward directly impacts the quality of the student experience. Ward coordinates with student organizations to address concerns and implement programs that support academic and social development. Through the promotion of leadership opportunities, the Junior Class President encourages active participation in the university community. Ultimately, Ward drives the student-centered advocacy necessary to maintain a supportive and inclusive environment for all learners at the university.

Alirio Valbuena, the Chief Information Officer at Bowie State University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy across the campus. Overseeing the integration of advanced learning management systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity for students and faculty. This leadership role involves securing sensitive institutional data while modernizing classroom technology to support academic research. By optimizing network performance, Alirio Valbuena directly impacts the university's ability to deliver high-quality education in a digital-first environment. Valbuena manages the deployment of enterprise software solutions that streamline administrative workflows and enhance student engagement. Through the implementation of robust cybersecurity protocols, the Chief Information Officer protects the integrity of academic records. Ultimately, Valbuena drives the technological evolution necessary to maintain the competitive standing of the institution within the broader Maryland higher education landscape.

Billye Pounds, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Bowie State University, directs talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture initiatives. Overseeing the recruitment of faculty and staff, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the university attracts top-tier professionals dedicated to student success. This leadership role involves managing benefits administration, labor relations, and professional development programs that enhance workforce productivity. By fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment, Billye Pounds directly impacts the retention of high-performing academic and administrative personnel. Pounds implements policies that align with institutional values and regulatory requirements to maintain a healthy campus climate. Through the coordination of performance management systems, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the professional growth of the entire university staff. Ultimately, Pounds drives the human capital strategy essential for sustaining the academic mission and operational excellence of the institution.