Kevin Howell
Howell, who will assume the role on May 5, will succeed Chancellor Randy Woodson, who is retiring in June after 15 years of leadership.
UNC System President Peter Hans recommended Howell following a national search that attracted more than 75 candidates.
"Kevin Howell is a born leader with a long record of service to North Carolina, the UNC System and NC State University," Hans said. "His deep relationships across the state have helped drive investment and growth. I am confident that he will strengthen NC State's role as a frontier research university, keeping North Carolina competitive in the most important fields of our future."
Howell currently serves as chief external affairs officer at UNC Health. His previous experience includes various leadership positions at NC State, including vice chancellor for external affairs, partnerships and economic development from 2018 to 2023. He also worked as assistant to the chancellor for external affairs from 2006 to 2016 and has held interim roles in university advancement and alumni affairs.
From 2016 to 2018, Howell served as senior vice president for external affairs at the UNC System Office. His government experience includes working as a legislative liaison to two former governors, along with roles at the NC Bar Association and Jefferson-Pilot Financial Insurance Company. He began his career as a legal clerk at the North Carolina Court of Appeals.
"This university shaped my life in profound and generous ways, and I am honored for the chance to lead my alma mater," Howell said. "NC State is a brilliant and inspiring place, just like the state we serve. There are exciting days ahead for the Pack, and I'm ready to make a difference."
