From the Desk of the President of Norfolk State University
As I reflect on my seventh year as President of Norfolk State University, I am filled with gratitude and excitement for what we’ve accomplished—and what lies ahead. There is something special about Norfolk State. I felt it from my very first contact. And seven years later, I can tell you that it has been a privilege and an honor to be the seventh President of Norfolk State University.
I truly believe there was something fateful about my appointment to this special place. As I often share, just before I was called by the search committee to come down and be offered a job, my husband said to me, “This is our appointment,” and five minutes later, the call came in. We had a mission to accomplish, as each President before me had a mission to accomplish. That, for me and for him, is the cornerstone of the work that we try to do here at Norfolk State.
I am grateful for the faculty, staff and alumni who have embraced my vision for the institution. Our mission is alive. Our impact is growing. For 90 years, Norfolk State has stood as a beacon of access, opportunity and success. From those 85 brave students who began their journey in 1935 to the thousands of Spartans who walk our campus today, we have never lost sight of our purpose: to educate, to empower and to elevate.
We work to achieve access by creating pathways where none existed, opportunity by lifting as we climb and success by preparing our students not only to survive, but to thrive in a world that needs their brilliance. Our charge is clear: to ensure that every Spartan leaves this campus not only with a degree but also with a sense of purpose, confidence and belonging.
During this milestone year, we have in fact achieved several milestones. Two of our biggest accomplishments have been believing that we could raise $90 million and exceeding it, and second, due to the hard work of our faculty and researchers, we earned the Carnegie R2 Research Institution designation — a national recognition of our commitment to excellence in scholarship and innovation.
Then there was the icing on the cake as billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott gifted us with $50 million, after awarding us $40 million in 2020. We received total gifts from Ms. Scott of $90 million as we celebrate our 90th year. Bravo!
Norfolk State is a rising force shaping the future—through every student we serve, every door we open, and every barrier we break. Ninety years ago, our Founders took a bold step in uncertain times. Let their strength and vision be a springboard to what’s next. The path ahead is rich with possibility, and it starts with us—here and now.
As always, Behold!
Sincerely,
Javaune Adams-Gaston, Ph.D.
President, Norfolk State University
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