*Howard University has appointed Dr. Lanisa S. Kitchiner as its first associate vice president for global and diaspora engagement, a newly created leadership role that will focus on strengthening the university’s international initiatives, particularly its partnerships and programs connected to Africa and the African diaspora. She will operate under the Office of the President, per the news release.
The creation of this position reflects the university’s broader strategy to amplify its international presence and deepen its relationships across the African continent and its global communities.
“The University recently established a strategic initiative to strengthen our focus on Africa and the African diaspora and enhance the University’s global impact,” said Ben Vinson III, Howard University president. “Dr. Kitchiner’s deep-rooted connection to Howard, combined with her wealth of experience in international education, cultural diplomacy, and strategic leadership, uniquely positions her to advance the university’s global engagement and impact.”
A proud Howard alumna, Dr. Kitchiner holds a B.A. in English and political science and a Ph.D. in African studies and research, with a specialization in art, history, and culture. Her impressive professional background spans leadership roles at some of the nation’s most prestigious institutions.
Most recently, she directed global operations at Harvard University’s Center for African Studies, where she led initiatives both in the United States and South Africa, the release states. Her work there included managing grant-funded programs and coordinating development efforts. At the Library of Congress, she headed the African and Middle Eastern Division, guiding teams in the curation of collections that explore regional and diasporic histories. Her time at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African Art saw her championing educational programs and exhibits that emphasized intercultural dialogue.
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Kitchiner also previously served at Howard’s Ralph Bunche International Affairs Center, where she helped launch international initiatives and curated significant exhibitions, including a lasting homage to the Nobel Peace Prize-winning diplomat for whom the center is named.
Returning to Howard, she expressed her sense of purpose and pride.
“It is a remarkable honor to return home to the Mecca for the purpose of sharing its magnificence with the world and bringing the world’s magnificence home to campus,” said Kitchiner. “Howard is a beacon of excellence with an incredibly rich legacy of building bridges, breaking barriers, and transcending borders for the betterment of humanity. I cannot think of a higher professional calling or greater cause to which to devote the full force of my passion and expertise.”
This appointment is part of Howard University’s ongoing commitment to global scholarship and connectivity, solidifying its role as a hub for African and diaspora engagement.
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