Office of the President
Presidential Welcome
Welcome to Tougaloo College, where we continue to build upon our rich legacy of academic excellence, social justice, and community engagement. As we advance our mission to educate tomorrow's leaders, we remain committed to providing transformative educational experiences that prepare our students to make meaningful contributions to society.
Dr. Donzell Lee
President of Tougaloo College
Dr. Donzell Lee became President of Tougaloo College on July 1, 2023. An accomplished educator and administrator, he brings more than four decades of leadership in honors education, graduate studies, and academic affairs—including service as Director of Honors, Dean of Graduate Studies, Provost and Executive Vice President, and Interim President—where he advanced program growth, accreditation milestones, and graduate opportunities.
On July 1, 2023, the Tougaloo College Board of Trustees named accomplished educator and administrator Dr. Donzell Lee as President. Dr. Lee has a proven track record of achievement in higher education leadership.
In July 2020, Dr. Lee completed 46 years of work in higher education at Alcorn State University. His career began as an instructor in music in the Department of Fine Arts, teaching courses in music education, music history and literature, and piano. As a performer, he presented frequent musical offerings as a soloist and accompanist, serving as an adjudicator and guest artist for piano competitions. In 2001, he became the department’s chairman, overseeing the successful reaffirmation of accreditation by NASM.
In 1984, Dr. Lee became the Director of the Honors Curriculum Program. Under his leadership, the program grew from 25 to 250 students. He engaged students in honors core courses, colloquia, seminars, and honors-enhanced courses, serving on the governing boards of SRHC, NCHC, and the National Association of African American Honors Programs—eventually as president of each.
In 2006, Dr. Lee became the Dean of Graduate Studies at Alcorn State University, leading the transition to a digitally driven office and expanding assistantships through U.S. Department of Education grants.
In 2015, as Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, he guided degree expansion and realignment, including transforming Social Work into a CSWE-accredited department. In 2018, he served as Interim President, breaking ground on major facilities and securing initial approvals for the university’s first doctoral degree (DNP) by IHL and SACS.
Governance & Leadership
Tougaloo College operates under a collaborative governance structure that ensures strategic leadership, academic excellence, and institutional accountability.
Board of Trustees
Our distinguished Board provides strategic oversight and governance, ensuring Tougaloo's mission and vision guide institutional decision-making and long-term planning.
President's Cabinet
Senior administrative leaders who collaborate directly with the President to execute the college's strategic initiatives and ensure operational excellence across all divisions.
Strategic Plan
Our comprehensive roadmap outlining Tougaloo's vision, goals, and strategic priorities for institutional growth, academic excellence, and community impact.
Office Staff
The President's Office team provides executive support and ensures effective communication and operations across the institution.
Dr. Donzell Lee
President
Linda J. Daniels, Ph.D.
Chief of Staff
Latona Banks
Executive Assistant to the President
Tonie Knott
Administrative Assistant
Contact Information
The Office of the President is available to support students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners. For mail and in-person visits, please use the details provided. Phone and fax lines are monitored during regular business hours.
In-person visits: Check in at the Blackmon Building, 2nd Floor.
Leadership for Tomorrow
Under this leadership, Tougaloo College continues to advance its mission of academic excellence and social justice. Connect with our office to learn more about our vision for the future.