Leandra Hayes-Burgess has been appointed as the interim vice chancellor for University Advancement at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, effective Sept. 28, 2026. Bringing more than 25 years of experience across five historically Black colleges and universities and a leading research university, Hayes-Burgess steps into a role tasked with sustaining private philanthropic support as public operating costs rise.
Leadership Background Across Higher Education
Hayes-Burgess brings two decades of senior executive leadership in higher education advancement. Most recently, she served as vice president for Institutional Advancement at Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina, where she managed fundraising, alumni relations, government relations, corporate and foundation relations, and communications and marketing.
Her career includes senior development roles at several other institutions.
Financial Objectives at North Carolina A&T
At North Carolina A&T, Hayes-Burgess leads a division that secured nearly $32 million in private support during the 2026 fiscal year. The University Advancement division houses planned gifts, corporate giving, annual giving, donor relations, Alumni Relations, and Advancement Operations. The division also maintains dotted-line relationships with affiliated entities, including the North Carolina A&T Foundation and the Aggie Athletic Fund.
Martin emphasized the necessity of private funding for the doctoral research HBCU.
Chief of Staff TaJuan Wilson noted that Hayes-Burgess is deeply familiar with both research university environments and HBCU advancement culture.
Education and Professional Credentials
She also holds a Certificate in Management and Leadership from Harvard University and holds the Certified Fund.
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