A message from our President

Welcome!

If you spend enough time with NCBAA-NE, something beautiful happens—you don’t just get to know the organization, you begin to feel it.

I am truly humbled by this experience. Being surrounded by higher education leaders, innovators, and changemakers has been one of the greatest highlights of my time as a member of NCBAA-NE. Now, as President, I have the privilege of deepening my engagement with these dynamic individuals who pour their expertise, passion, and commitment into our community.

Every member of NCBAA-NE brings something powerful to the table — their lived experience, their talent, and their unwavering dedication to advancing higher education. Together, we strengthen our institutions, uplift our students, and support one another in our leadership journeys.

We hope you’ll join us for the ride. This organization is needed now more than ever, and we are committed to uplifting our community, amplifying our collective voice, and expanding opportunities for Black professionals in higher education.

And our region is vast—stretching across 12 states and two U.S. territories:
Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Vermont, and the Virgin Islands. Everywhere you go in this region, you’ll find NCBAA-NE members doing the work, shaping the future of higher education.

Follow us on LinkedIn, explore our website, and experience the magic of our annual conference.

Because once you know NCBAA-NE, you’ll understand why so many of us love it.

Wishing you continued abundance and greatness,

Johari A. Barnes, EdD

2024-25 Board of Directors

The Directors serve on the Board and represent the North Central, Northeast, Southern, and Western regions of the United States to ensure that when decisions are made about you and for you global thinking has occurred. Your Directors join the entire NCBAA Board in welcoming you to the association.