Dr. Jann L. Joseph
President, Georgia Gwinnett College

Dr. Jann L. Joseph became president of Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) in 2019. As a transformative leader, she has reinvigorated GGC’s innovative programs, ensuring students engage in experiential learning, including internships and service learning in support of retention and graduation.

A visionary, Joseph expanded GGC’s academic portfolio with the Bachelor of Science in health science to address state health care needs and five nexus degrees to fast-track students into Georgia’s entertainment industry.

She demonstrated strategic foresight upon her arrival to GGC by securing state support for major building and infrastructure projects, including a convocation center set to open in late fall 2024. Joseph also gained the University System of Georgia’s (USG) approval to introduce men’s and women’s basketball to GGC’s NAIA athletic offerings.

Joseph adeptly navigated GGC through the pandemic, implementing strategies to support students and ensure financial stability. Her leadership was pivotal in positioning GGC for post-pandemic success. Subsequently, she oversaw the implementation of GGC’s 2023-2025 strategic plan, laying the foundation for the 25th-anniversary vision (2025-2030) and future growth.

She is a driving force for academic innovation and student success, extending her leadership expertise to the USG, regional, state and national levels, often in key decision-making roles supporting professional development opportunities, particularly for women and underrepresented groups.

Joseph chairs the Council on General Education and supports the Executive Leadership Institute within the USG. Her commitment to the region and state includes service on the boards of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, the Atlanta Regional Council for Higher Education, Gwinnett County Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Hispanic Chamber, Rainbow Village, Rowen Foundation, and The Water Tower at Gwinnett. She is also an ardent supporter of Georgia Women in Higher Education.

Nationally, Joseph chairs the American Council on Education Women’s Network Executive Council and is a member of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities Professional Development Committee. She is also a board member for Higher Education Resource Services.

Her deep commitment to supporting the next generation of trailblazers is evident. As a mentor and ally to emerging leaders, Joseph shares her expertise in higher education and life lessons as an invited and engaging speaker and panelist at conferences and workshops. Accolades for her service include the prestigious Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Public Service Award (2021) and Moxie Award (2022), and the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Workforce Igniter of the Year (2023).

An advocate for continual learning, Joseph implemented leadership development for all new department chairs and increased overall resources for faculty. She also supported staff participation in the Leading from the Middle initiative and leadership and team growth sessions for the Senior Leadership Council.

Born in Trinidad, West Indies, and the youngest of five siblings, Joseph’s distinguished academic journey began at the University of the West Indies at St. Augustine, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture and a master’s degree in plant science. She embarked on her education career as a junior high school teacher in Trinidad and Tobago.

Her relentless pursuit of knowledge led her to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she earned a doctorate in curriculum and instruction in science education. Joseph’s extensive experience includes faculty and administration roles at Grand Valley State University, Eastern Michigan University, and Indiana University – South Bend, where she excelled as executive vice chancellor and interim chancellor.

Joseph draws her energy and passion from her three adult sons and their beautiful families. She resides in Lawrenceville, Georgia.