Bluefield State University Names Dr. Ronald A. Johnson Interim President

Bluefield State University has named Ronald A. Johnson interim president, effective Oct. 28. Johnson is an experienced university president, economist and financial executive.

Johnson is the former president of Clark Atlanta University and has served as interim president of Kentucky State University and Tennessee State University. His leadership has focused on student success, financial sustainability, and institutional accountability, grounded in a commitment to shared governance, mentorship, and continuous improvement. His accomplishments earned him recognition as one of the nation’s Top 10 College Presidents of the 21st Century.

The American Enterprise Institute ranked more than 400 college and university presidents on how much they improved affordability, access and student success. Johnson placed eighth in the nation for his work at Clark Atlanta. He earned his highest marks in the study for holding down costs for students while also increasing graduation and retention rates.

Johnson will succeed Acting President Cathy Deeb, who will return to her role as vice chair of the Board of Governors.

“On behalf of the board, I want to thank Cathy Deeb for stepping forward to serve as acting president during an important time for Bluefield State. Cathy has devoted tremendous time and energy to supporting our students, faculty and staff and keeping the university moving forward. Her love for Bluefield State has been evident throughout her service, and we are grateful for her continued leadership as she returns to her role as vice chair.”

Charlie Cole, chair of the Bluefield State University Board of Governors

At Clark Atlanta, Johnson led academic and organizational initiatives to improve enrollment, student retention, graduation rates and financial performance. He also guided the development of a strategic plan and the reaffirmation of the university’s accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

At Kentucky State, Johnson used his leadership and financial expertise to address the university’s financial challenges and help build a foundation for long-term stability.

“Bluefield State University has a proud history and an essential role in the future of this region,” Johnson said. “I look forward to listening to our students, faculty and staff, working with the Board of Governors and building relationships with alumni and community partners. Together, we can address the university’s immediate needs while keeping our focus on students and Bluefield State’s long-term success.”

Before becoming a university president, Johnson served as dean of the Jesse H. Jones School of Business at Texas Southern University and dean of the College of Business at Western Carolina University. He has taught at Texas Southern, Western Carolina, Florida A&M, Howard and Northeastern universities.

In the financial sector, Johnson served as president and chief investment officer of Smith Graham & Co. and as director of global fixed income research and senior portfolio manager at Templeton Worldwide. His public service includes positions with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the International Monetary Fund and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.

Johnson co-founded the HBCU Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University, which prepares leaders to serve historically Black colleges and universities. His national service includes membership on the President’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities  and service as chair of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Consumer Advisory Board.

Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in economics and an MBA in finance from Adelphi University. He holds an MA and a PhD in economics from Stanford University.