As a teenager, Adolph Brown had zero interest in pursuing higher education. His mom had other ideas. The Virginia Beach native came to Virginia State University for his undergraduate and master’s degrees and stayed once he began to build a base of students actively engaging in the community.

Known for his innovative teaching methods and focus on student success and engagement, Brown has contributed to scholarly research in educational psychology and held various administrative positions influencing policymaking and curriculum development.

 As a faculty member of VCU’s School of Business, Brown was selected as a Fullbright specialist and was sent to Singapore in November to teach economics as part of an exchange program that connects U.S. academics with institutions worldwide to share expertise, strengthen relationships, hone skills, gain international experience and learn about other cultures. “That and getting the Young Citizen of the Year award were my highlights this year,” Brown says. “Plus, I’m a new father and when I look at my daughter, I want to be the same encouraging presence for her that my family was.”

 A successful public speaker whose talks and workshops incorporate real-life experiences and practical examples, Brown’s commitment to mentorship extends beyond the classroom. “At VUU, many students are first-generation students. I remember trying to figure out life in those early college years,” he says. “Economics can be boring, so I touch on things like personal finances, subjects that are engaging to young people. I feed off their energy.”

 With Brown, it’s all about fostering positive energy, so he advocates for educational reforms and social justice initiatives, articulating the needs and challenges of marginalized communities to influence policymakers and drive positive change.

“If I could, my goal is to be president of a university,” he says. “I know where higher education can lead you and I try to instill that in my students and the prisoners.”