Washington, D.C. — October 15, 2025 — The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) announces that Paulette Granberry Russell will transition from her role as President and Chief Executive Officer on December 31, 2025, and will assume the title of President Emeritus on January 1, 2026.
The NADOHE Board of Directors has engaged Academic Search to recruit a new chief executive by December 31.
Since being sworn in as President in 2020, Granberry Russell has guided NADOHE through a period of profound transformation. Under her leadership, NADOHE strengthened its infrastructure, expanded its national voice, and set records in membership, conference participation, and funding. She led with courage during the pandemic, ensuring continuity of learning and community for chief diversity officers during a time of uncertainty, and secured record level funding in new grants — a historic milestone for the organization.
Granberry Russell also positioned NADOHE as a leading advocate for fairness and opportunity in higher education. Most notably, she guided the association as lead plaintiff in a lawsuit against the federal government’s attempt to dismantle diversity programs, affirming NADOHE’s unwavering commitment to access and equal opportunity across the academy.
“It has been the honor of my professional life to serve this organization and the thousands of leaders who advance access and opportunity on their campuses each day,” Granberry Russell said. “NADOHE’s mission and impact are more vital than ever. Stepping into the role of President Emeritus is part of a long-term vision for NADOHE, allowing new leadership to build on the strong foundation we’ve created and helping ensure the Association’s continued success for years to come. As I transition, I look forward to supporting our next CEO and continuing to contribute to this important work through my consulting and speaking engagements. I will always be one of NADOHE’s strongest champions.”
Granberry Russell’s tenure has been marked by growth, impact, and stability during one of the most complex eras in higher education. Her leadership helped solidify NADOHE’s role as the preeminent voice for diversity officers, guiding institutions through legal, political, and cultural shifts with purpose and clarity.
“Paulette’s leadership has shaped NADOHE’s trajectory for generations to come,” said Caroline Laguerre-Brown, chair of the NADOHE Board of Directors. “Her vision, courage, and strategic discipline helped transform NADOHE into a globally recognized voice for fairness and opportunity in higher education. We are grateful that she will continue to serve as President Emeritus and work with our next President and CEO to ensure a smooth transition and sustained momentum.”
More details about the leadership transition will be shared in the coming months.
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About NADOHE
The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) serves as the preeminent voice for diversity officers and senior equity leaders in higher education. NADOHE advances equity, access, and opportunity through professional development, policy advocacy, and institutional leadership across the higher education landscape.
For more information, visit www.nadohe.org.