Philander Smith College recently announced the appointment of Dr. Vonnice Boone as the new MBA Director at the private Historically Black College & University (HBCU) in downtown Little Rock, marking a significant milestone for the institution’s graduate program. With her extensive experience in the business world, university officials said Dr. Boone is poised to lead the program to exceptional heights and guide the first cohort of MBA graduates to success. 

In her new role as MBA (Master of Business Administration) program director, Boone brings an unwavering dedication to empowering and uplifting students, fostering a culture of excellence, and dismantling barriers that impede access to advanced business education, officials said. She envisions a future “where every voice is heard, dreams are nurtured, and success knows no boundaries,” PSU said in a news release. 

“As Dr. Boone assumes leadership of the MBA program, Philander Smith College stands poised to become a beacon of inspiration, transforming lives, industries, and the future. The institution is honored to have Dr. Boone as a catalyst for progress and eagerly anticipates the remarkable growth and achievements she will bring to the program,” the PSU news release stated. 

Boone earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from North Carolina A&T State University in December 2007, making her the first in her family to graduate from college. She received her MBA at the University of Maryland, graduating in May 2012 alongside her husband. Recently, Boone completed her doctorate in education, concentrating on performance improvement leadership, further augmenting her comprehensive understanding of the field. 

Having resided in Arkansas for eight years, Boone has held executive positions at several top corporations, including Tyson Foods, Walmart Inc., and Vortex PAC. Her role at Walmart commenced in Global Audit Services, where she contributed to key initiatives such as the retail giant’s Sarbanes Oxley and Foreign Corruption Practices Act (FCPA) teams. She also served as Project Manager II, spearheading hiring and retention initiatives and company-wide diversity and inclusion training. 

Boone is actively engaged in numerous community organizations. Her affiliations include the Phi Alpha Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the University of Arkansas Sam Walton College of Business Diversity and Inclusion Corporate Advisory Board, and the Northwest Arkansas MLK Council. She also serves as the president and charter member of the Northwest Arkansas National Black MBA Association Chapter, among other leadership positions. 

Boone and her husband have two sons, Darius (13) and Dylan (7). Her family is a constant source of inspiration and support in her pursuit of excellence.