CHARLOTTE, N.C./August 25, 2026 - The College of Business and Professional Studies at Johnson C. Smith University is pleased to announce two leadership appointments, effective Fall 2026. Dr. Judith D. Crocker-Billingsley, Associate Professor of Social Work, has been appointed Chair of the Department of Social Work, and Dr. Robert R. Lindsey, Professor of Health Education, has been appointed Chair of the Department of Health and Human Performance.
Dr. Crocker-Billingsley’s appointment brings the Department of Social Work’s leadership structure under one chair, following the previous co-chair model involving Dr. Latoya Brooks-Key and Dr. Melvin Herring. This new alignment will strengthen leadership continuity across the BSW and MSW programs while supporting continued momentum in student engagement, curriculum innovation, community partnerships, and professional preparation.
Affectionately known as “Dr. J,” Dr. Crocker-Billingsley is a tenured Associate Professor of Social Work and BSW Program Director with nearly 30 years of experience as a social work educator. She is widely recognized for her commitment to student mentorship, advocacy, collaborative leadership, and community-centered social work engagement.
Dr. Lindsey succeeds Dr. Gregory Petersen, who served as Acting Chair of the Department of Health and Human Performance during the summer and has since resigned from JCSU to assume a similar role at another institution. The College thanks Dr. Petersen for his service and wishes him continued success.
Dr. Lindsey brings extensive experience in health education, research, student development, and community-based engagement. A Professor and Teacher Advisor at JCSU since 2010, he previously served as Department Chair from 2015 to 2018 and has taught courses in health education, sport psychology, epidemiology, program planning and evaluation, minority health, global health, research, statistics, and quantitative methods.
His leadership will be important as the Department of Health and Human Performance continues to advance its work in public health, sport management, esports, student research, experiential learning, and community wellness.
“As Dean of the College of Business and Professional Studies, I am delighted to congratulate Dr. Judith Crocker-Billingsley and Dr. Robert Lindsey on their appointments,” said Dr. Alphonso Ogbuehi. “Both are accomplished faculty leaders whose experience, institutional knowledge, and commitment to student success will contribute meaningfully to the growth, visibility, and success of their departments and the College.”
The College invites the JCSU campus community to join in congratulating Dr. Crocker-Billingsley and Dr. Lindsey as they assume these important leadership roles.
