Ericka N. Covington, DBA

Former Dean of Graduate Studies

Coppin State University

Dr. Ericka N. Covington is a transformative higher education leader with a distinguished record of advancing academic excellence, equity, and organizational innovation. As former Dean of Graduate Studies at Coppin State University, she spearheaded initiatives that strengthened graduate program quality, expanded enrollment pipelines, and enhanced student success outcomes.

Holding a Doctor of Business Administration with a concentration in Leadership, Dr. Covington brings a unique blend of corporate acumen and academic leadership to institutional strategy. Her experience includes leading national marketing campaigns for a Fortune 500 company and designing executive leadership development programs, equipping her with a results-driven approach to organizational growth and stakeholder engagement.

A certified Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practitioner through Cornell University, Dr. Covington, is deeply committed to fostering inclusive excellence and shaping policies that advance access and equity in higher education. Her research explores leadership dynamics within complex organizations, sustainable business development in urban communities, and strategies for leveraging leadership to drive institutional transformation.

Dr. Covington’s career began in public service, where she applied her criminal justice administration expertise in roles that informed her passion for social justice and community impact. This perspective continues to guide her vision for higher education as a catalyst for societal progress and innovation.