Johnson C. Smith University proudly celebrates its 15th president, Dr. Valerie Kinloch, on receiving the American Educational Research Association’s (AERA) 2025 Scholars of Color in Education Distinguished Career Contribution Award.
Selected from among thousands of leaders across the nation, Kinloch was recognized for her exceptional contributions to education research and her unwavering commitment to equity and community engagement. She received the prestigious honor at the AERA Awards Ceremony Luncheon during the association’s 2025 Annual Meeting, at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver.
“Let me first start by saying, I am honored to be standing on this stage. I am thankful for this moment, to be able to gather with each and every one of you here today. These are some trying times we are in. Higher education is under fire and as a President of a Historically Black College and University, Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina - the number one private HBCU in all of North Carolina - I want to just take this moment and say, I am thankful,” Kinloch said.
AERA leadership praised Dr. Kinloch’s trailblazing efforts in reimagining the role of scholars and leaders, particularly through her focus on literacy, education equity reform, and community-rooted engagement. During her remarks, President Kinloch emphasized the shared mission to educate, empower, and inspire the next generation.
“I also want to just take this time to thank all of the people who are connected to cultivating new voices for scholars of color. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, for believing that the critical work that we do in higher education is possible, and it will move mountains,” Kinloch said.
AERA officials highlighted Dr. Kinloch’s impact in advancing conversations on equity, justice, and transformative action, both in K-12 and higher education. Her lifelong dedication to dismantling systemic barriers of race, class, and gender has resulted in lasting societal change.
President Kinloch made it clear that the students of JCSU were at the forefront of her heart as she accepted the award.
“Finally, I would not be standing here if it were not for the 1,300-plus students at Johnson C. Smith University, who embraced me, who I see myself in, and who are on the frontlines of knowing that we have times that we have to fight. We have to continue to persevere for the lives of our children. That’s the work that we need to do. I accept this award not for myself, but for my students who will continue to survive and thrive in this unrelenting world,” Kinloch said to an audience moved to enthusiastic applause.
Founded in 1916, AERA is the largest national interdisciplinary research association devoted to advancing knowledge about education and learning. The Distinguished Career Contribution Award recognizes scholars whose work has made a profound and lasting impact on the field.
At Johnson C. Smith University, Kinloch’s leadership continues to light the way—championing inclusive success, inspiring transformational change, and ensuring that JCSU remains a beacon for scholars, leaders, and dreamers for generations to come.
