Zenobia Edwards, an education veteran from South Carolina, has been tapped to lead Johnson C. Smith University’s newly created adult education program, called the Metropolitan College.
JCSU President Ronald Carter announced plans for the school in June.
As the Metropolitan College’s first dean, Edwards will help build the new program from the ground up – deciding class schedules, choosing a curriculum and implementing programs to accommodate working adults.
The Metropolitan College marks the first time that JCSU has ventured into adult education. Other schools that offer similar programs, including Central Piedmont Community College, report large enrollment gains as more working adults return to the classroom amid job and economic concerns.
Carter had said in June that continuing-education classes might start this fall, with degree programs likely to begin in January.
According to a bio provided by JCSU, Edwards has worked as a science teacher, alternative school principal and business owner. She most recently worked as a senior school partnership manager with College Summit, a national nonprofit credited with helping nearly 35,000 low-income students navigate the college application process.
Edwards received a doctorate in education administration from Nova Southeastern University. She holds a master’s of science degree from Converse College and a bachelor’s of science degree from Wofford College.
She also co-founded I Am B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L. Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to coaching girls.
