Meet Dr. Javan Reed

I wanted to attend Jackson State University because of the reputation of the Executive PhD program in Urban Higher Education. I had the privilege of working with several leaders in the HBCU space that graduated from this program. I was inspired by their leadership, skills and commitment to our nations gems.

During my doctoral studies at Jackson State University, I learned about past, current and future state of higher education. The program helped me to design a qualitative research project that focused on persistence of non traditional students. Jackson State University developed me to be a scholar, practitioner, and advent researcher. Outside of the coursework, I learned the value of urban ecosystems that drive economic, political and social mobility for the black community.

When I was a freshman student at Tallahassee Community College, I had the opportunity to attend a social event at Florida State University. I left that event filled with a sense of admiration and a desire to be a part of such a distinguished group of black men. Motivated by this encounter, I embarked on extensive research about Kappa Alpha Psi. It didn’t take long for me to discover that some of the most remarkable leaders in my hometown of Jacksonville were Nupes. Learning about their accomplishments and the positive influence they had on their communities only reaffirmed my decision to pledge. For me, joining Kappa Alpha Psi meant much more than just being part of a fraternity. It meant becoming part of a brotherhood rooted in values of scholarship, achievement, community support, and social justice advocacy. I saw an opportunity to make a difference, to contribute to meaningful causes, and to surround myself with like-minded individuals who were passionate about uplifting others.

I am a two-time HBCU graduate. I completed my undergraduate degree at Edward Waters University and Jackson State University. Edward Waters University was the hbcu that changed my life. After graduation, my alma mater hired me as a Coordinator. That experience lead me Nova Southeastern University and there I completed MBA in management. Edward Waters University changed the trajectory of my professional career and I made drastic shift from fashion to higher education.

I have served as Program Director for CLIMB and Continuing Education at Edward Waters University. Founded the College of Graduate, Adult and Continuing Education at Wilberforce University, Assistant Vice President of Distance and Online Education at Wiley University in Marshall, Texas and currently I work for the nations last designated HBCU -Simmons College of Kentucky as the Vice President for Academic Affairs. In this role, I have created a myriad of academic programs and courses for other hbcu students like myself. Perhaps the most valuable thing that I have done since graduation from Jackson State Univeristy, is create the Second Chance Pell degree programs for men and women that are currently incarcerated across the commonwealth of Kentucky.

My advice to the younger generation in Kappa land is to always seek mentorship. Study and learn from those that came before you.