Ronald Johnson, the dean of Texas Southern University’s business college, has been named the new president of Clark Atlanta University.

Johnson, who will become the university’s fourth president on July 1, replaces Carlton Brown, who retires in June after seven years leading the institution.

Johnson was unanimously selected by Clark Atlanta’s board from a pool of more than 100 applicants, and three finalists. He has served in his position at Texas Southern, another historically black institution in Houston, since 2011. Johnson’s previous experience includes serving as the dean of the business college at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, N.C., and several other academic and private-sector business leadership positions.

Clark Atlanta made the announcement Tuesday in a press conference attended by notable alumni, including U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson and Atlanta City Councilman CT Martin.

Clark Atlanta's announcement follows Spelman College's selection last week of former New York University dean Mary Schmidt Campbell as its new president.

Campbell will replace Beverly Tatum, who also retires this summer after 13 years leading the acclaimed women’s college.

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A graduate attends Clark Atlanta University’s 2025 commencement ceremony Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Georgia State’s Convocation Center. (Daniel Varnado for the AJC)

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