Dr. Charlie Nelms believes that FAMU is a national leader among colleges and he strongly feels that he can help build upon the excellent foundation FAMU already has. He believes that one strong aspect of sound leadership is the ability to listen to all who are involved with any every aspect of a school and its history. With this process of inclusion everyone can successfully move ahead together.
Nelms received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in 1968. From Indiana University, he received a Master of Science degree in college student personnel and higher education administration in 1971, and an Ed.D. degree in higher education administration in 1977.
Prior to his current appointment, Dr. Nelms served with distinction as
Chancellor at two universities: the University of Michigan at Flint and Indiana University at Richmond. During his 30 plus year career in higher education, he has also held teaching and administrative positions at Earlham College(IN) ,Indiana University Northwest (IN), Lehman College (NY), Sinclair Community
College (OH), and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (AR). Nelms has worked in the areas of academic affairs, student development, and enrollment management.
Active in civic and community activities and the author of numerous papers and publications, Nelms is currently chair of the commission for leadership
development for the American Council on Education and is commissioner for the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges. He is also one of the founders of the Millennium Institute, which helps prepare the next wave of African American presidents and chancellors.
Dr. Nelms believes that his leadership style and personality is like that of a deer or a goose. “Deer are intelligent, take advantage of an opportunity, and they are good listeners while geese always fly in packs with one leading but if that goose should ever grow tired he can move to the back of the line and the other will take the helm