Dr. Vernell Bennett-Fairs began her tenure as the 13th president of LeMoyne-Owen College on January 5, 2021. Dr. Bennett-Fairs is the second woman chosen to lead the only historically black college in Memphis, TN.

Dr. Bennett-Fairs’ career spans 26 years in higher education. She is a trained vocalist and orator who has served as an associate professor and college administrator. However, her most cherished role is that of student advocate. Previously, Dr. Bennett-Fairs served as the Vice President for Student Affairs at Delta State University.

A native of Lorain, Ohio, Dr. Bennett-Fairs began her postsecondary career at Kentucky State University as a non-tenure tract Instructor of Music. Dr. Bennett-Fairs’ career spanned 20 years at KSU where her final role was as the Vice President for Student Affairs.

Dr. Bennett-Fairs is a HBUC alum of Fisk University where she sang and traveled worldwide with the esteemed Jubilee Singers. She also joined the Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. while attending Fisk.

Take a listen as Dr. Bennett-Fairs discusses her journey as a Fisk University Jubilee Singer, leadership in higher education and her outlook both personally and professionally in the next ten years.