Norfolk State University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Norfolk State University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, and chapter leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Norfolk State University fosters a diverse and inclusive environment that promotes lifelong learning and community engagement, impacting prospective students, current students, military personnel, and alumni.

Leadership Roles at Norfolk State University

  • President, Chapter (Houston) - Tanya Ingram
  • President - Takyra Powell
  • NSU NABJ President - A'lauren Gilchrist
  • President, Chapter (Charlotte) - Corey Ball
  • President - Denise Thompson
  • President - Chelsee Smith
  • Chief of Staff - Deborah Fontaine
  • Chief Information Officer - Paul Strassman
  • Chief Technology Officer - Richard Haynes
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer - Trenton Walker
  • Tanya Ingram - President, Chapter (Houston)

    Tanya Ingram, the President, Chapter (Houston) at Norfolk State University, leads the university's alumni engagement and outreach efforts within the Houston region. Ingram cultivates relationships with alumni, prospective students, and community partners, fostering a strong network that supports university initiatives. This leadership position involves organizing events, promoting university programs, and driving philanthropic support for academic and student success services. Tanya Ingram's dedication strengthens the connection between Norfolk State University and its constituents in Houston, reinforcing the commitment to lifelong learning and community engagement. The Chapter President's responsibilities include developing strategic plans for chapter activities, managing chapter operations, and representing the university's interests in the local community. Ingram's efforts expand the university's reach and impact beyond its primary campus.

    Takyra Powell - President

    Takyra Powell, the President at Norfolk State University, directs the overall strategic vision and administrative operations of the institution. Powell is responsible for advancing the university's mission across all academic disciplines, including liberal arts, sciences, engineering, and business, while ensuring a diverse and inclusive learning environment. This executive leadership role involves overseeing the provision of critical student support services such as academic advising, tutoring, and career services, all aimed at fostering student success. Takyra Powell's leadership is pivotal in maintaining Norfolk State University's commitment to lifelong learning and robust community engagement. The President's duties encompass fostering strong relationships with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and external stakeholders, driving institutional growth and enhancing the university's reputation. Powell's strategic guidance ensures the university effectively serves prospective students, current students, military personnel, and alumni.

    A'lauren Gilchrist - NSU NABJ President

    A'lauren Gilchrist, the NSU NABJ President at Norfolk State University, leads the National Association of Black Journalists chapter, focusing on professional development and advocacy for students in journalism and media fields. Gilchrist organizes workshops, networking events, and speaker series designed to enhance the skills and career prospects of student members. This role is instrumental in connecting students with industry professionals and opportunities within liberal arts and communications programs. A'lauren Gilchrist's leadership promotes excellence and diversity within the student body, supporting the university's broader commitment to lifelong learning and community engagement. The NSU NABJ President's responsibilities include managing chapter activities, recruiting new members, and fostering a supportive environment for aspiring journalists. Gilchrist's efforts directly contribute to the career readiness of students pursuing media-related fields.

    Corey Ball - President, Chapter (Charlotte)

    Corey Ball, the President, Chapter (Charlotte) at Norfolk State University, spearheads alumni relations and university representation within the Charlotte metropolitan area. Ball drives initiatives to connect with alumni, engage prospective students, and build strategic partnerships that support the university's educational mission. This leadership role focuses on expanding the university's network and influence in North Carolina, promoting academic programs and student success services. Corey Ball's efforts enhance Norfolk State University's presence and impact in the Charlotte region, reinforcing the commitment to lifelong learning and community engagement. The Chapter President's responsibilities include planning and executing regional events, managing chapter communications, and fostering a sense of community among local alumni and supporters. Ball's strategic outreach strengthens the university's connection with its constituents in the Charlotte area.

    Denise Thompson - President

    Denise Thompson, the President at Norfolk State University, guides the institution's strategic direction and operational effectiveness, ensuring the delivery of high-quality academic programs. Thompson oversees the university's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that supports lifelong learning and community engagement across all disciplines. This executive position is critical in managing the university's resources and advancing its mission to serve prospective students, current students, military personnel, and alumni. Denise Thompson's leadership ensures the robust provision of student support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services, all designed to maximize student success. The President's focus includes strengthening academic rigor, promoting research, and enhancing the university's standing within the higher education sector. Thompson drives institutional excellence and strategic growth.

    Chelsee Smith - President

    Chelsee Smith, the President at Norfolk State University, directs the university's strategic initiatives and operational framework, championing academic excellence and student development. Smith is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive campus culture that promotes lifelong learning and active community engagement across all academic areas. This leadership role is central to ensuring the effective delivery of comprehensive student support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services, thereby fostering student success. Chelsee Smith's leadership reinforces Norfolk State University's core values and its commitment to serving a broad constituency, including prospective students, current students, military personnel, and alumni. The President's responsibilities involve advancing the university's educational offerings, fostering innovation, and strengthening its position within the national higher education landscape. Smith drives the university's mission forward with a focus on impactful outcomes.

    Deborah Fontaine - Chief of Staff

    Deborah Fontaine, the Chief of Staff at Norfolk State University, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across university departments. Fontaine ensures efficient execution of the President's agenda, managing key projects and facilitating communication between administrative offices and external stakeholders. This leadership role involves optimizing internal processes to support the university's mission of providing comprehensive academic programs in liberal arts, sciences, engineering, and business. Fontaine's oversight extends to resource allocation and policy implementation, directly contributing to the university's commitment to fostering lifelong learning and community engagement. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include coordinating high-level meetings and ensuring seamless operational flow, thereby enhancing the support services like academic advising and career services available to students and alumni. Deborah Fontaine drives the strategic direction by translating institutional goals into actionable plans, solidifying the university's market position in education.

    Paul Strassman - Chief Information Officer

    Paul Strassman, the Chief Information Officer at Norfolk State University, architects the institution's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Strassman oversees the development and implementation of IT policies, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures and efficient data management to support academic and administrative functions. This critical role involves leading the information technology division, which provides essential services such as academic advising platforms, tutoring systems, and career services portals. Paul Strassman's leadership ensures that technology effectively supports student success and the university's commitment to lifelong learning and community engagement. The Chief Information Officer's focus includes enhancing network capabilities, managing enterprise software solutions, and driving digital transformation initiatives across all disciplines, from liberal arts to engineering. Strassman's strategic vision enables Norfolk State University to leverage technology for operational excellence and expanded reach to prospective students, current students, military personnel, and alumni.

    Richard Haynes - Chief Technology Officer

    Richard Haynes, the Chief Technology Officer at Norfolk State University, spearheads technological innovation and the integration of advanced systems across academic and research endeavors. Haynes directs the strategic deployment of cutting-edge technologies that enhance the educational experience and support the university's diverse program offerings in sciences, engineering, and business. This executive position involves overseeing the technological roadmap, ensuring that infrastructure supports research initiatives and the delivery of high-quality academic advising and tutoring services. Richard Haynes's expertise is crucial in maintaining Norfolk State University's competitive edge in the higher education landscape, promoting a culture of technological advancement. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include evaluating emerging technologies, managing technology partnerships, and ensuring the scalability and reliability of the university's technological assets. Haynes drives technological progress, reinforcing the university's commitment to lifelong learning and community engagement for all its constituents.

    Trenton Walker - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Trenton Walker, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Norfolk State University, supports the Chief Information Officer in executing the university's comprehensive IT strategy and operational management. Walker directly supervises key IT teams responsible for network operations, system administration, and user support, ensuring the seamless delivery of technology services. This role is vital in maintaining the integrity and performance of systems that underpin academic advising, tutoring, and career services, directly impacting student success. Trenton Walker's contributions are essential in implementing technological solutions that align with Norfolk State University's mission to foster lifelong learning and community engagement. The Deputy Chief Information Officer plays a crucial part in managing IT projects, enhancing cybersecurity protocols, and ensuring the efficient functioning of digital platforms used by prospective students, current students, military personnel, and alumni. Walker's operational focus ensures the stability and advancement of the university's technological infrastructure.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Norfolk State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Norfolk State University?
    Norfolk State University is led by Tanya Ingram (President, Chapter (Houston)), along with executives such as Takyra Powell (President) and A'lauren Gilchrist (NSU NABJ President).
    Who is part of Norfolk State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Norfolk State University includes leaders such as Tanya Ingram (President, Chapter (Houston)), Takyra Powell (President), A'lauren Gilchrist (NSU NABJ President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Norfolk State University have?
    Norfolk State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Norfolk State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Norfolk State University includes roles such as President, Chapter (Houston), President, NSU NABJ President, President, Chapter (Charlotte), President.