Lane College appoints Dr. Lawrence T. Potter, Jr. as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Lane College Appoints Dr. Lawrence T. Potter, Jr. as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Jackson, TN —Lane College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Lawrence T. Potter, Jr., as  the new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, along with his role as a professor of English,  effective July 28, 2025. Dr. Potter, a nationally recognized academic leader, brings over 27 years of  substantial experience within higher education administration, student success initiatives, and faculty  development to this pivotal role. 

Most recently, Dr. Potter held the position of Vice President of Academic Affairs at Canisius University  in Buffalo, New York. In his prior capacity as Chief Academic Officer and Provost at the University of  the District of Columbia (UDC), he led transformative initiatives that significantly enhanced the  university’s academic standing and national rankings. Under his stewardship, UDC successfully  introduced new doctoral programs, expanded academic pathways, and achieved a remarkable increase  in research funding, rising from $19 million to $46 million —a 142% growth. 

As a third-generation alumnus of a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), Dr. Potter  completed his Bachelor of Arts in English, Religion, and Philosophy at Stillman College. Additionally,  he holds both a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in English from the University of Missouri-Columbia, with  a concentration on American and African American literature and culture. His professional  development includes participation in the American Council on Education (ACE) Fellows Program and  the IBM Executive Management Program.

Dr. Donald W. Comer, President of Lane College, remarked, “Dr. Potter’s visionary leadership and  steadfast commitment to academic excellence render him an exemplary fit for Lane College. His  demonstrated record of innovation and strategic planning will be crucial in advancing our mission  while equipping our students to thrive in an increasingly dynamic world.” 

Beyond his administrative expertise, Dr. Potter is also a published scholar whose recent research  explores themes of diversity in higher education and African American literary studies. His appointment  marks a significant milestone in Lane College’s dedicated pursuit of academic distinction and student centered leadership.

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