Bonita J. Brown was installed Friday as Winston-Salem State University’s 14th chancellor, becoming the first permanent female top administrator in the school’s 132-year history.

Retired Judge Denise Hartsfield of Forsyth District Court administered the oath of office to Brown as her parents, her husband and UNC System President Peter Hans gathered around her in Benton Convention Center.

Brown, 53, told more than 1,000 people who attended her installation ceremony that she is honored and humbled to serve as WSSU’s chancellor.

“I feel like I was called to lead this institution,” Brown said.

Brown was appointed as the Winston-Salem State University chancellor by the UNC board of governors. She began her duties on July 1, 2024.

In her speech, Brown praised the previous chancellors and pre

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