Javaune M. Adams-Gaston

Javaune Adams-Gaston is the seventh president of Norfolk State University (VA). As president, she is committed to ensuring that Norfolk State University fulfills its mission as a historically Black college or university (HBCU) for the modern world, a university grounded by its heritage, focused on the future, and deeply committed to student success.

A nationally recognized higher education leader, Adams-Gaston has been asked to regularly serve on multiple boards. In these roles, she has provided her unambiguous perspectives to HBCUs, Research I institutions, public universities, and independent colleges.

Prior to joining Norfolk State University, Adams-Gaston served as senior vice president at The Ohio State University and led 40 departments in the Office of Student Life, annually impacting over 66,000 students. She came to The Ohio University State from the University of Maryland, where she served in administrative and faculty positions.

Adams-Gaston earned a bachelor’s degree in biology, psychology, and general science at the University of Dubuque (IA); a master’s degree in psychology at Loras College (IA); and a Ph.D. in psychology at Iowa State University.