By Briasia Russ

Keisha Lance Bottoms is joining Clark Atlanta University, where she will be the first honorary fellow to train people for careers as leaders of HBCUs. According to HBCU Buzz, Bottoms’ role will be speaking to the first cohort of fellows for the HBCU Executive Leadership Institute. The institute is funded by the Chan Zuckerberg foundation, the same foundation that contributed $1 million toward the effort.  

“For more than 150 years, HBCUs have not only played an important role in American higher education, but also in building stronger communities and world-class leaders in every sector of society,” Bottoms said in a statement. “As a proud graduate of Florida A&M University, I am excited to accept this honorary fellowship and support HBCU ELI’s efforts to ensure this legacy continues.” 

The state’s largest private HBCUs president, George T. French Jr., is confident in Bottoms, considering her HBCU roots.  

“Mayor Bottoms is experienced, intelligent, and has a strong commitment to the next generation of women leaders,” the university president said. “As an alumna of Florida A&M University, she continues to remind us that HBCUs can indeed create leaders who help solve society’s most pressing challenges, even in the face of crisis.” 

HBCU Buzz reports that Bottoms term ends in January, and she does not plan on seeking reelection.  

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