The Alabama Cooperative Extension System at Alabama A&M University (AAMU) is pleased to announce that Assistant Director Kimberly Sinclair- Holmes was chosen as a 2023 fellow of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Executive Leadership Institute (HBCU ELI).
“We congratulate Dr. Holmes on being selected as a 2023 HBCU ELI Fellow,” said Alabama Extension Interim Director Majed ElDweik. “Her leadership will be invaluable in strengthening the legacy of HBCUs across the nation.”
Clark Atlanta University is the official host of the HBCU ELI. In 2018, the HBCU Council of Past Presidents recognized the need to develop future leadership for historically black educational institutions across the nation. It was Clark Atlanta University that answered the call, and the first Community of Fellows was selected in 2022.
The HBCU ELI is a 12-month program that provides fellows with training using 13 core competencies and micro-credentials to master skills in a particular area. The program also includes a virtual coaching component, which matches each fellow with a mentor as they progress through the training.
“I am inspired by HBCU presidents and others who demonstrate transformational leadership during these very challenging times,” Holmes said. “I hope to apply skills enhanced and expanded in this program to promote pathways of economic mobility for students and communities we serve.” Holmes will conclude HBCU ELI training in November 2023, upon completion of all requirements for graduation and certification.
“Dr. Holmes is a strategic leader with a notable skill set,” said Andrea Morris, Extension interim associate director. “She is a worthy candidate for this opportunity, and we are pleased to support her.”
As an Extension assistant director at an HBCU, she manages a team of seven specialists. This team conducts outreach activities in more than 26 counties in Alabama and beyond. Holmes also served in administrative positions at other HBCUs, including Kentucky State University, Savannah State University and Albany State University.
