Historically Black College and University LeMoyne-Owen College named Dr. Andrea Miller as its new president last week. The Memphis institution concluded a national search to replace outgoing president Johnnie Watson.

According HBCUBuzz.com, Miller will be the first woman to lead the college and the 12th president in the school’s history.

Miller formerly served as chancellor of Baton Rouge Community College in Louisiana prior to her new position at LeMoyne-Owen.

Attending LeMoyne in the 70’s, Miller graduated with a degree in biology and went on to attain her master’s and PhD from Atlanta University.

By way of  theadvocate.com, Miller wants to focus on growing the college’s legacy of incubating student growth.

“I look forward to embracing my alma mater’s shining legacy and helping the institution evolve in today’s higher education marketplace. I want LeMoyne-Owen College to continue to be for others what it was for me: a precious opportunity to learn, grow and eventually find purpose,” said Miller.

After facing financial issues, LeMoyne-Owen has grown over the last five years. HBCUBuzz’s article on Miller’s selection as president notes that the college “opened a new $13.5 million residence hall in 2013” and has emerged well from the money troubles that dogged it in the late aughts.

Miller’s tenure as president begins on September 1st of this year.

I look forward to seeing what Dr. Miller accomplishes at LeMoyne-Owen College and how her appointment advances both minority and women issues on campus, and in the community at large.

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