Little Rock, AR (July 10, 2023) – Philander Smith College is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Vonnice Boone as the new MBA Director, marking a significant milestone for the institution’s graduate program. With her extensive experience in the business world, Dr. Boone is poised to lead the program to exceptional heights and guide the first cohort of MBA graduates to success.
Dr. Vonnice Boone is a distinguished educator, nonprofit leader, and entrepreneur of remarkable caliber. She achieved 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. Subsequently, she pursued her MBA at the University of Maryland, graduating in May 2012 alongside her husband. Recently, Dr. 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, Dr. Boone has made noteworthy contributions to the local business community. She has held significant positions at esteemed organizations including Tyson Foods, Walmart Inc., and Vortex PAC. Notably, her tenure at Walmart commenced in Global Audit Services, where she contributed to vital initiatives such as the Sarbanes Oxley Team and the Foreign Corruption Practices Act (FCPA) team. Demonstrating her commitment to diversity and inclusion, she subsequently advanced to the role of Project Manager II, spearheading Associate Resource Groups, hiring and retention initiatives, and company-wide diversity and inclusion training.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Boone is actively engaged in numerous community organizations, exemplifying her dedication to making a positive impact. Noteworthy affiliations include the Phi Alpha Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, 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 esteemed leadership positions.
Dr. Boone is a devoted family woman and shares her life with her husband and two sons, Darius (13) and Dylan (7). Her family serves as a constant source of inspiration and support in her pursuit of excellence.
Assuming the role of MBA Program Director at Philander Smith College, Dr. Vonnice Boone brings unwavering dedication to empowering and uplifting students, fostering a culture of excellence, and dismantling barriers that impede access to advanced business education. She envisions a future where every voice is heard, dreams are nurtured, and success knows no boundaries. Driven by her unyielding passion and guided by her profound knowledge, she endeavors to redefine possibilities, shatter glass ceilings, and inspire transformative change.
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.
