Perry Named Vice President for Enrollment Management

Athens State University is pleased to announce that Dr. James Perry has been named Athens State University’s Vice President for Enrollment Management, effective January 1, 2027. Perry brings extensive experience in higher education leadership, with a background spanning admissions, recruitment, financial aid, student affairs, and strategic enrollment management.

Perry most recently served as Dean of Enrollment and Access at Delta College in University Center, Michigan, where he provided executive leadership for integrated enrollment services across Admissions, Registration, and Financial Aid. During his time there, he led strategic enrollment initiatives, strengthened student-centered services, and developed partnerships to expand access and support student success. He also served as the Interim Director of Financial Aid.

Prior to joining Delta College, Perry spent several years at Tuskegee University, where he held multiple leadership roles, including Director of Admissions and Recruitment and Interim Dean of Students. His work included overseeing recruitment operations, modernizing admissions processes, strengthening outreach efforts, and advancing enrollment strategies aligned with institutional priorities.

Perry earned his Ph.D. in Integrative Public Policy and Development from Tuskegee University in 2026. He also holds a master’s degree in Integrative Public Policy and Development from Tuskegee, a master’s degree in Psychology from Grand Canyon University, and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Tuskegee University.

In his new role, Perry will provide leadership for Athens State’s enrollment management efforts, bringing experience in developing strategic recruitment initiatives, improving enrollment operations, and creating pathways that help students gain access and succeed in higher education.

“I’m excited to welcome Dr. James Perry to Athens State University as our new Vice President for Enrollment Management,” said Dr. Catherine Wehlburg, Athens State University President. “His experience and background make him a wonderful fit for the work that we do to support our adult, transfer, and working students, both at the graduate and undergraduate levels.”

“I’m thrilled to join Athens State University at such an exciting time, and I want to thank President Catherine Wehlburg for the opportunity to work with her and her outstanding team,” said Dr. Perry. “Enrollment management is about more than numbers. It’s about connecting students with an education that can change their lives and strengthen our region. I look forward to partnering with colleagues across campus and with the greater Athens and North Alabama community, including our community college partners, employers, and civic leaders, to grow enrollment, expand access, and ensure every student who chooses Athens State has the support they need to succeed.”