Dr. James Anderson genuinely understands the mindset of frustrated youth who find themselves incarcerated rather than getting an education. Growing up an orphan on the tough streets ofWashington,D.C., Anderson worked diligently to achieve academically, refusing to fall victimto the allure of drugs and violence that stole the lives of somany around him.
As the new chancellor at Fayetteville State University in North Carolina, Anderson is committed to getting more minority students, particularly young Black and Latino males, off the road of underachievement and on a path to success.
“I was one of those youngmales.Mymother gaveme up at birth. I don’t know whomy father is,” says Anderson, adding that consistent mentorship is key. “The first 10 years of my life, I was pretty much on the streets, but people took an interest in me. They made sure I did well in school [and] made sure I had clothes.We need moremales to step forward and spend timewith youth.”
Formerly the vice provost and vice president at the University at Albany-State University of NewYork,Anderson comes to FSU during a tumultuous time in the institution’s 141-year history.
FSU’s premier program, nursing, came under fire last year when just seven of its 32 students graduated. As a result, the North Carolina State Board of Nursing placed the programon probation, giving the school one year to bring the programinto compliance with state standards. Furthermore, plagued by financial troubles, FSU reports some of the lowest student retention and graduation rates in theUNCsystem.
Where others see problems,Anderson sees promise. The nursing school tops the list of Anderson’s priorities. “Fayetteville has many excellent programs. It also has some programs that have not moved far enough, fast enough,”Anderson says.
