Knoxville College, East Tennessee’s only HBCU, has named Dr. Rotesha Harris as its new president. Harris, who has been serving as the interim president since June, is stepping into the role with a transformative goal: to regain the accreditation the college lost decades ago.
“We are thrilled to have Dr. Harris at the helm during this transformative time,” said Eric Barnes, chairman of the Knoxville College Board of Trustees. “Her unmatched skill set, dedication to academic excellence, and strong work ethic make her the perfect leader to usher Knoxville College into its next chapter of growth and achievement.”
Dr. Harris brings nearly two decades of experience in higher education. While the college has yet to disclose further details about her professional journey, her recent dissertation at Clark Atlanta University explored how HBCUs navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. This academic focus reflects her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique obstacles faced by historically Black institutions.
Knoxville College has faced significant hurdles over the years, including the loss of its accreditation in 1997 due to financial struggles, declining enrollment, and administrative challenges. The institution, located in the Mechanicsville neighborhood near downtown Knoxville, now offers only online classes to a small group of students. The physical campus, which includes several historic buildings like the 126-year-old Elnathan Hall, remains vacant. Tragically, Elnathan Hall was destroyed in a fire on November 4, 2024.
Founded in 1875 as Knoxville Freedmen’s College, the school’s mission was deeply rooted in training formerly enslaved individuals for teaching careers. Its establishment, led by the United Presbyterian Church, marked a pivotal step in post-Civil War education in the Southeast. Centennial Hall, its first building, was dedicated in 1876, symbolizing hope and opportunity for many Black students during Reconstruction.
Despite its struggles, Knoxville College’s legacy as a beacon of education for the Black community remains undeniable. Dr. Harris’ leadership is seen as a critical turning point for the college, offering a renewed sense of hope for its future.
Her focus on restoring accreditation aligns with the college’s broader mission to reclaim its place as a cornerstone of academic excellence in East Tennessee. As Knoxville College steps into its next chapter, the community and alumni are watching closely, eager to see how this historic institution will rise once more.
