Daria Willis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Daria Willis
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| President of Howard Community College | |
| Assumed office January 10, 2022 |
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| Preceded by | Kathleen Hetherington |
| President of Everett Community College | |
| In office July 1, 2019 – January 2022 |
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| Personal details | |
| Children | 3 |
| Alma mater | Florida A&M University Florida State University |
Daria J. Willis is an American academic leader and historian. She is currently the president of Howard Community College. Before this, Dr. Willis was the president of Everett Community College from 2019 to 2021. She made history at both colleges by becoming the first African American president. Earlier in her career, she was an assistant professor of history at the Lone Star College System.
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Daria Willis's Early Life and Education
Daria Willis grew up in Atlanta. When she was six years old, her father passed away. She was a very dedicated student and finished high school in just three years.
College and Advanced Degrees
Dr. Willis attended Florida A&M University, where she earned two degrees: a bachelor's degree in African American studies and a master's degree in applied social science. She then went on to earn her Ph.D. in history from Florida State University. Her doctoral research in 2012 focused on the life of Adella Hunt, an important educator and suffragist. Her advisor for this work was Maxine D. Jones.
Daria Willis's Career Journey
Dr. Willis began her teaching career as an adjunct professor of history at Tallahassee Community College. She then joined the Lone Star College System. There, she held several important roles, including assistant professor of history, president of the faculty senate, department chairwoman, and executive dean of centers. Later, she became the dean of academic studies at Lee College.
Leadership Roles in Community Colleges
In July 2016, Dr. Willis joined Onondaga Community College. She quickly rose to become the provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. In 2018, she was recognized for her achievements with a "40 under 40" award from the American Association for Women in Community Colleges. She also led the education committee for the NAACP.
On July 1, 2019, Dr. Willis became the president of Everett Community College. She was the first African American person to lead this institution.
Leading Howard Community College
On November 5, 2021, it was announced that Dr. Willis would be the next president of Howard Community College (HCC). She officially started this role on January 10, 2022. Dr. Willis is also the first African American to hold the position of president at Howard Community College.
Daria Willis's Family Life
Dr. Willis is married to Isiah David Brown. They met in Tallahassee, Florida. She is a mother to three children: two daughters and one son.
