Spelman College President Helene Gayle Officially Steps Down After Personal Leave of Absence

After taking a sudden leave of absence on October 18, Helen Gayle, president of Spelman College in Atlanta, has officially stepped down from her role.

Dr. Gayle was appointed as the eleventh president of Spelman College in 2022. Originally trained as a public health physician, she previously spent two decades in several roles at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prior to her Spelman presidency, she served as CEO of The Chicago Community Trust and CEO of CARE.

Roz Brewer, a Spelman alumna and former chair of the college’s board of trustees, will continue to serve as interim president while the college searches for its next permanent leader.

“I join the trustees in extending my gratitude to Dr. Gayle for her service to this amazing institution,” said Brewer in a video announcement to the Spelman community. “I’m also excited to continue my service as your interim president. Spelman has given so much to me over the years. To have the opportunity to once again give back to Spelman fills me with joy. It’s an amazing time to be here.”

Brewer has an extensive background in corporate leadership, previously serving as CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc., group president and COO of Starbucks, and CEO of Sam’s Club. She received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Spelman College and has completed executive management programs at the University of Chicago, Stanford University, and the University of Pennsylvania.