Interview with North Carolina A&T Chancellor Harold L. Martin

Today we’re joined by North Carolina A&T Chancellor Harold L. Martin.  North Carolina A&T is the newest member to join the University Innovation Alliance, a leading national coalition of public research universities committed to increasing the number and diversity of college graduates.  Chancellor Martin says we have to meet the challenge of providing students an excellent educational experience and the support they deserve.  He’s excited to connect with exceptional colleagues that he can share best practices with.  It’s a great way to ask the tough questions, collaborate, and come up with the best answers.

Chancellor Martin says institutions working on their own will have a hard time achieving results for students.  The UIA gives you strength and resources you wouldn’t have otherwise.  Together they’re all focused on the same area of need, growing and increasing success in graduating students.  Chancellor Martin says North Carolina A&T used to be very insular, often feeling like they had to protect their history, their mission, even their turf.  However, they’ve found that in today's age, the demand for talented graduates requires collaboration.  So Chancellor Martin is excited to unite with institutions that are committed to the same goals and objectives of increasing graduation rates for first generation, low income, and students of color.

Our current presidential administration has deployed additional resources to historically black colleges that are increasing their visibility.  Higher ed has received critical money to enhance infrastructure and invest in academic programs.  Chancellor Martin says this administration is also elevating the conversation around the importance and value of science.  Institutions will play a critical role in driving innovation in science research, and Chancellor Martin is excited to add value to this collaboration.  A&T is committed to creating well-prepared graduates that will work on important issues like climate and infrastructure.

When it comes to giving advice to future chancellors, Martin says that experience is invaluable.  Chancellor Martin feels very fortunate to have had opportunities for advancement in his career.  These opportunities allowed him to expand his leadership skills and experiences.  It was experience that taught him to manage change and lead teams through change.  He says he encourages prospective chancellors not to be so impatient, to take the time to gain experiences along the way.