Alanka Brown Appointed CEO of Arizona State University’s California College

Alanka Brown has been appointed chief executive officer and dean of California College of Arizona State University. The college, formerly known as Columbia College of Hollywood, is a nonprofit affiliate of Arizona State University that prepares students for careers in creative industries.

Dr. Brown comes to her new role from Miami Dade College in Florida. She had stints as president of the college’s Homestead and Padrón campuses. Earlier in her career, she served as vice president for academic and student affairs at Wilbur Wright College in Chicago and as vice president and dean of academic affairs at Frederick Community College in Maryland. She has focused her higher education career around improving institutional and operational effectiveness, advancing student access and inclusion, and strengthening community partnerships.

“This is a very exciting time for California College of ASU, and I am committed to building upon the strong foundation that the college has established in its 72-year history and taking that legacy to new heights,” said Dr. Brown. “I look forward to fostering a culture where students, faculty and staff can thrive academically, personally and professionally as their best selves. This will be work we do together with a commitment where connection, collaboration and communication will be at the heart of what we do and the key to our success.”

Dr. Brown received her bachelor’s degree in political science from Florida A&M University. She holds a master’s degree in international affairs and international political economy from Florida State University, as well as a second master’s degree in public administration and a doctorate in higher education administration from Nova Southeastern University in Florida.