Dr. Edney served as Interim President of the university from February 2010 to January 2011, prior to the appointment of Dr. Brown. Dr. Edney currently serves as the Interim Dean of the School of Nursing, which is located on the Natchez Campus of Alcorn State University.

“I look forward to leading Alcorn during this important time,” said Dr. Edney. “Having spent most of my professional career at Alcorn, I welcome any opportunity to serve this institution, which I hold so close to my heart.”

Dr. Edney has served in a variety of roles at Alcorn State University, beginning as biology instructor in 1963 and working his way up to senior leadership positions. He has served as dean of Graduate Studies, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and chairman of the Department of Biology. He also worked as director for the Natchez Nursing Program from initiation of the program through the second accreditation cycle.

In addition, he served as president of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) from 1979 until 1984. He has also served as president of the Natchez-Adams County School Board. He holds an associate degree from Natchez Junior College, an undergraduate degree in biology from Tougaloo College, a Master’s degree in biology from Antioch College in Yellow Springs, Colo., and a doctorate in conservation from Michigan State University.

“The Board and I are pleased that Dr. Edney has agreed to step into this important role during this transition period,” said Dr. Hank M. Bounds, Commissioner of Higher Education. “Once again, his years of experience at Alcorn and deep understanding of the university, including its staff, students, alumni and community, will help ensure that the institution continues its important mission of teaching, research and service without missing a beat.”

Board of Trustees President Bob Owens will appoint a Board Search Committee and begin a national search for the next president in the very near future. According to Board Policy, the Acting President is not eligible to apply for the permanent position.

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The Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning governs the public universities in Mississippi, including Alcorn State University; Delta State University; Jackson State University; Mississippi State University including the Mississippi State University Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine; Mississippi University for Women; Mississippi Valley State University; the University of Mississippi including the University of Mississippi Medical Center; and the University of Southern Mississippi.