by Angela Mills

Tennessee State University has appointed Eric Stokes, Ph.D., a strategic enrollment leader with a proven track record in higher education, as the new vice president of ‘enrollment management.’ With more than 20 years of experience, he will play a pivotal role in advancing TSU’s enrollment initiatives.

Dr. Stokes, a Knoxville native, said: “I’m excited to join Tennessee State University in this new role and am committed to working with our dedicated faculty, staff, students, and alumni to promote TSU as a premier institution for higher education. Together, we will cultivate an inclusive and dynamic environment that empowers students to achieve their academic and personal goals.”

Dr. Stokes most recently served as the ‘assistant vice provost’ for ‘strategic enrollment management’ at the University of Memphis, where he successfully enrolled the largest freshman class in the university’s modern history. Under his leadership, the university increased the average GPA and ACT/SAT scores of incoming students, dramatically grew the dual enrollment program to the largest in the state, and implemented innovative recruitment strategies that are best practices in the industry.

In his new role (which reports to the TSU president), Dr. Stokes will oversee all areas of enrollment management, including recruitment, admissions, and records. His experience implementing a first-in-class enrollment CRM platform, which will significantly enhance strategic recruitment and data-driven enrollment management, will be invaluable to TSU.

“Dr. Stokes’ team-oriented strategy in enrollment management will significantly enhance TSU’s efforts to reach our goals and foster support for our diverse student body,” said Interim President Dwayne Tucker.

Dr. Stokes holds a Doctor of Philosophy in ‘higher education administration’ and a master’s in ‘higher education administration’ from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and a bachelor’s degree in ‘secondary education’ from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.