Virginia Union University Announces New Leaders to Propel 'Excellence Reimagined' Vision

July 19, 2024

Virginia Union University (VUU) is excited to announce a series of key appointments that mark a new era of excellence and innovation. As we continue to advance towards our goal of becoming a 'Best in Class' institution, we welcome Dr. Charles Prince, Dr. Joy Goodrich, Victoria Nichols, and Leonard Broadnax to our leadership team. Their collective expertise and dedication will be instrumental in shaping the future of VUU.

Dr. Charles Prince: Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Chief Transformation Officer

Effective July 29, 2024, Dr. Charles Prince will step into his new role as Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Chief Transformation Officer. Dr. Prince joined VUU in January 2022 as the Associate Vice President of Research and Innovation. His extensive background in higher education, both in the United States and the UK, positions him to lead our strategic planning, accreditation, research, and evaluation initiatives.

“I am excited for our Institutional Effectiveness team as our new leader, Dr. Prince, brings a wealth of knowledge that will elevate Virginia Union University to operate at a ‘Best in Class’ level,” said Dr. Hakim J. Lucas, President and CEO of VUU. “Dr. Prince’s proven track record in pioneering innovative strategies will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our IE practices.”

Dr. Prince holds a Doctor of Education in Global Executive Education from the University of Southern California, a Master of Educational Leadership and Human Development in International Education from George Washington University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Composite Social Studies from Southern University.

Dr. Joy Goodrich: Vice President of Student Development and Success

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Joy Goodrich as Vice President of Student Development and Success, effective July 29, 2024. Dr. Goodrich returns to VUU after serving as the Dean of Graduate Studies at Edward Waters University, where she significantly contributed to the institution's academic and operational excellence. Her previous 18-year tenure at VUU, during which she served under five presidents in various roles, underscores her deep commitment to our university.

"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Joy Goodrich back to Virginia Union University," said Dr. Hakim J. Lucas. "Her extensive experience and deep commitment to student success make her an invaluable addition to our leadership team."

Dr. Goodrich's career spans 29 years, starting as a high school teacher and evolving through numerous leadership roles. Among her many accolades, she holds Six Sigma Yellow, Green, and Black Belt certifications and was honored with the VUU Ruth Coles Harris Education Leadership Award in 2019.

Victoria Nichols: Vice President of Enrollment Management and Chief Compliance Officer

Victoria Nichols will assume her role as Vice President of Enrollment Management and Chief Compliance Officer on July 29, 2024. Nichols first joined VUU in February 2021 as Director of Admissions and has since played a crucial role in shaping the university’s strategic enrollment initiatives. Her two-decade-long career in enrollment management, student affairs, and strategic planning is marked by a profound commitment to education and student success.

“Victoria Nichols has been a cornerstone of our enrollment management team, steering us to new heights with her strategic insight and unwavering dedication,” stated Dr. Hakim J. Lucas.

Nichols holds a Master’s degree in Educational Management from Strayer University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Management from Virginia State University. Her guiding principle, “Meeting students where they are and impacting their lives one day at a time,” mirrors the university’s dedication to student-centered values.

Leonard Broadnax: Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety

Effective August 5, 2024, Leonard Broadnax will join VUU as the new Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety. With over three decades of dedicated law enforcement experience, Broadnax brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic insight to his new role. His recent tenure as Deputy Sheriff at the Richmond City Sheriff's Office and previous position as Police Lieutenant at VUU Police Department demonstrate his commitment to public safety and community engagement.

"Virginia Union University welcomes Leonard Broadnax to his new role as Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety," said Dr. Hakim J. Lucas. "His extensive experience and dedication to law enforcement are invaluable assets to our university."

Broadnax holds a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management and is a retired Richmond Police Department officer with 26 years of service. His career is marked by several accolades, including the Greater Richmond Business Community Bronze Valor Award and Six Sigma Yellow/Green Belt Certification.

As we welcome these new leaders, we also extend our best wishes to Acting Chief Vance Richards and thank him for his service. Virginia Union University is poised for a new era of innovation and excellence under the guidance of Dr. Prince, Dr. Goodrich, Victoria Nichols, and Leonard Broadnax. Their leadership will undoubtedly contribute to VUU’s mission to become a Best-in-Class university.