SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Dr. Leslie N. Pollard serves as the 11th President of Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama, bringing over four decades of leadership experience in higher education, ministry, and organizational development. A 1978 graduate of Oakwood, Dr. Pollard holds a Master of Divinity from Andrews University, a Doctor of Ministry in Preaching and Worship from Claremont School of Theology, an MBA in Organizational Management from La Sierra University, and a Ph.D. in New Testament Language and Literature from Andrews University—becoming the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in academic theology from its seminary.
Since assuming the presidency in 2010, Dr. Pollard has led Oakwood University through a season of transformative growth, institutional innovation, and strengthened community impact. His career spans pastoral leadership at major churches in California, university chaplaincy, healthcare administration, and global leadership development. He has spoken in 44 countries and is a recognized voice on leadership, diversity, and mission within the Seventh-day Adventist Church and beyond. His groundbreaking book Embracing Diversity: How to Reach People of All Cultures is a widely used resource in leadership education and has been translated into multiple languages. A prolific writer and thought leader, he contributes regularly to Adventist Review, Ministry, and Message magazines and serves on the editorial board of The Journal of Applied Christian Leadership.
As Dr. Pollard prepares to conclude his 15-year tenure as president, a Farewell Committee has been established to honor his legacy and the vital role of his wife and partner in leadership, Dr. Prudence LaBeach Pollard, Vice President for Faculty Development and Research. “The Pollards’ time at Oakwood has been marked by significant growth,” says Dr. David Richardson, chair of the Farewell Committee. In recognition of their lasting impact, the university will host a series of celebratory events including academic sessions, student-focused engagements, an outdoor community gathering, and a formal banquet. Attendees will be invited to share messages of appreciation, and the festivities will be captured through photos and video by the university’s media team.
Dr. Prudence Pollard is a distinguished academic leader, certified human resource professional, and registered dietitian. She holds degrees from Oakwood University, the University of Michigan, and Western Michigan University. In addition to her administrative leadership, she serves as an adjunct professor at La Sierra and Loma Linda Universities and has played a central role in faculty development and strategic planning at Oakwood.
Together, the Pollards have two accomplished daughters, both Oakwood graduates. Kristin Pollard, an attorney, works for NASA in Huntsville, Alabama, focusing on aerospace law and federal policy. Karin Pollard is a fourth-year doctoral student at Loma Linda University School of Pharmacy, pursuing a career in pharmaceutical research and healthcare.
With vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to mission, Dr. Pollard’s leadership—shaped alongside Dr. Prudence Pollard—has left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire the Oakwood community for years to come.