Early Life and Education
Born in Ile-Ife, Nigeria, Johnson O. Akinleye was one of 22 children. He pursued higher education in the United States, earning a bachelor’s degree in telecommunications and a master’s degree in media technology from Alabama A&M University. He later obtained a doctorate in human communications studies from Howard University.
Academic and Professional Career
Akinleye commenced his academic career as an assistant professor in the Department of Communications at Bowie State University from 1986 to 1989. Over the years, he held leadership positions at Bethune-Cookman University, Edward Waters College, and the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
In 2014, Akinleye joined North Carolina Central University (NCCU) as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. Following the passing of Chancellor Debra Saunders-White, he was appointed acting chancellor from August to December 2016 and interim chancellor from December 2016 to June 2017. His official installation as NCCU’s twelfth chancellor took place on June 26, 2017.
Dr. Akinleye is widely recognized for his transformational leadership, significantly advancing NCCU’s status as a high-performing Historically Black College and University (HBCU). His influence extended beyond the university, as he was a featured speaker on PBS and appointed to the NCAA Division I Presidential Forum.
After years of service, Akinleye retired on June 30, 2024.
Personal Life
Dr. Akinleye is married to Juanita Akinleye, and they have two adult children, Nikki and Peter. He is a member of Omega Psi Phi and Sigma Pi Phi fraternities.