Dr. LeNá Powe McDonald will return to The University of Alabama as vice president for community impact July 6.
McDonald, who currently serves as associate commissioner for academic relations with the Southeastern Conference, has experience leading enterprise-wide academic initiatives, workforce and economic development strategy, and institutional governance. Her work has included designing data-driven impact frameworks, cultivating statewide partnerships and aligning institutional priorities with public, philanthropic and workforce needs.
“Leading Community Impact provides an opportunity to build on the University’s current outreach programming and advance strategic alignment with President Mohler’s vision for meeting Alabama’s economic and workforce needs as the Future-Ready Flagship,” McDonald said.
“Investing in higher education is not simply an investment in a four-year degree — it’s an investment in resources and innovation that benefit everyone. The teaching, research and service mission of The University of Alabama is dedicated to making the lives of Alabamians better every day, and our community impact work will continue to advance that mission.”
The vice president for community impact serves as the University’s executive leader responsible for forging meaningful partnerships with local communities, statewide leaders and national organizations. Working alongside academic and administrative leadership, the vice president will align the University’s strengths with real-world needs, ensuring its work makes a measurable difference across Alabama and beyond.
The office will be part of a broader focus on partnerships and strategy under the direction of Senior Vice President Chad Tindol.
“Dr. McDonald brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this office,” Tindol said. “Her leadership will build upon the University’s history of external outreach and will strengthen UA’s impact and partnerships throughout the state.”
In her current role, she leads initiatives that elevate institutional collaboration, student achievement and public impact across the SEC’s 16 member institutions.
Before joining the SEC, McDonald served in the UA Office of the President as director of internal affairs and UA System liaison. She also has held leadership roles in advancement, economic development and workforce development with the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce and the Birmingham Business Alliance.
McDonald earned a doctorate in higher education administration, a master’s degree in communication studies and a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in community development and dance, all from The University of Alabama.