Fort Valley State University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Fort Valley State University has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, legal, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to transformative education, Fort Valley State University leverages its unique position as a land-grant institution to foster discovery and prepare students for global leadership, enhancing lives through applied knowledge.

Leadership Roles at Fort Valley State University

  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - Dorothy Stripling
  • President - Paul Jones
  • Chief of Staff - Rj Mathis
  • Interim Chief Human Resources Officer - Emma Bennett-Williams
  • Chief Legal Officer - Canter Brown
  • Dorothy Stripling - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    Dorothy Stripling, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Fort Valley State University, manages the institution's comprehensive financial operations and fiscal health. This executive oversees budgeting, financial planning, accounting, treasury, and audit functions, ensuring robust financial stewardship. Stripling directs the allocation of resources to support FVSU's academic programs, research endeavors, and campus infrastructure, maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency. The Interim Chief Financial Officer is pivotal in developing financial strategies that sustain the university's growth and operational capacity, navigating complex funding landscapes. By safeguarding financial assets and optimizing revenue streams, Dorothy Stripling ensures the university's long-term viability and its ability to fulfill its land-grant mission effectively.

    Paul Jones - President

    Paul Jones, the President at Fort Valley State University, directs the overall strategic vision and executive leadership of the institution. This role encompasses guiding academic excellence, fostering research innovation, and ensuring the university's financial stability and community engagement. Jones champions FVSU's unique identity as a land-grant institution, driving initiatives that enhance student success and societal impact. The President oversees all major university operations, including faculty, staff, and administrative functions, cultivating a culture of achievement and inclusivity. By setting institutional priorities and representing FVSU on local, national, and international stages, Paul Jones advances the university's mission to prepare global leaders and enable discovery.
    Paul Jones

    Rj Mathis - Chief of Staff

    Rj Mathis, the Chief of Staff at Fort Valley State University, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across university departments. This leadership role ensures the efficient execution of presidential directives and facilitates cross-functional collaboration to advance the institution's mission. Mathis oversees the coordination of key projects, manages critical communications, and supports the President in navigating complex administrative challenges. By streamlining internal processes and fostering a culture of accountability, Mathis drives operational excellence and enhances the university's capacity for innovation. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities extend to advising on policy development and ensuring that all university operations adhere to the highest standards of integrity and effectiveness, directly supporting FVSU's commitment to student success and community impact.

    Emma Bennett-Williams - Interim Chief Human Resources Officer

    Emma Bennett-Williams, the Interim Chief Human Resources Officer at Fort Valley State University, spearheads all human capital management strategies and operations. This executive directs the development and implementation of policies governing recruitment, employee relations, compensation, benefits, and professional development for the university's faculty and staff. Bennett-Williams ensures compliance with labor laws and fosters a supportive and productive work environment, aligning HR functions with FVSU's strategic objectives. The Interim Chief Human Resources Officer plays a crucial part in talent acquisition and retention, cultivating a diverse and skilled workforce essential for academic and administrative excellence. By championing employee well-being and organizational development, Bennett-Williams strengthens the university's human infrastructure, enabling FVSU to achieve its educational and research goals.
    Canter Brown, the Chief Legal Officer at Fort Valley State University, provides expert legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the institution. This executive directs the management of litigation, contract review, regulatory compliance, and risk management, safeguarding FVSU's interests. Brown advises university leadership on legal implications of policies, academic matters, and operational decisions, ensuring adherence to federal, state, and local laws. The Chief Legal Officer plays a critical role in shaping institutional governance and protecting the university's assets and reputation. By navigating complex legal frameworks, Canter Brown supports FVSU's mission to provide accessible, high-quality education and drive discovery, ensuring operational integrity.
    Canter Brown

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Fort Valley State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Fort Valley State University?
    Fort Valley State University is led by Dorothy Stripling (Interim Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Paul Jones (President) and Rj Mathis (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Fort Valley State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Fort Valley State University includes leaders such as Dorothy Stripling (Interim Chief Financial Officer), Paul Jones (President), Rj Mathis (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Fort Valley State University have?
    Fort Valley State University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Fort Valley State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Fort Valley State University includes roles such as Interim Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief of Staff, Interim Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Legal Officer.