HBCU Nationwide Empower Effort

The PROPEL Center, a first-of-its-kind innovation hub designed to support and advance the work of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) nationwide, announces the hiring of executive-level leaders and key program directors including Michael Johnson, Chief of Staff; Dr. Glen Spencer, Jr., Chief Development Officer; Dr. Dione Simon, Chief Impact and Programs Officer; Ashley Sutton, Director of Strategic Partnerships; and Darryl Perkins, Director of Work-Based Learning.

Chief Impact & Programs Officer Dr. Dione Simon will guide the PROPEL Center's efforts across the entire HBCU ecosystem by introducing challenge-based, accelerated, and other experiential learning opportunities for both students and faculty members. With over two decades of transformative leadership in innovation and education, Simon brings a wealth of experience to PROPEL's programmatic objectives. Her educational background includes advanced degrees from Southern University and the University of West Georgia, complementing her professional expertise in leading technology-inspired and innovation-driven educational initiatives. Dr. Dione Simon is the daughter of Carrie Simon of Monroe, LA.