Bennett College had the honor of serving as one of the host institutions for the National Association of College Deans, Registrars, and Admissions Officers (NACDRAO) as they gathered in Greensboro to celebrate a century of leadership, service, and commitment to higher education.
For 100 years, NACDRAO has brought together professionals dedicated to ensuring that access, equity, and opportunity remain central to the collegiate experience. Their decades of work—often behind the scenes and always mission-driven—have shaped generations of students and strengthened the institutions that support them.
This year’s milestone theme, “Celebrating 100 Years: Where Opportunity Meets Excellence,” reflects not only NACDRAO’s enduring mission but also the shared values that anchor Bennett College.
A Warm Welcome from Bennett College
Interim President Dr. Teresa Hardee extended greetings on behalf of the entire Bennett community, highlighting the significance of hosting education leaders whose work aligns so deeply with the College’s own legacy.
“As an institution that has itself stood as a beacon for women’s education and leadership for nearly a century, Bennett College celebrates your legacy of service and the transformative work you continue to do to prepare, inspire, and guide the next generation of scholars and professionals,” Dr. Hardee shared in her welcome message.
Her remarks underscored Bennett’s long-standing commitment to access, equity, and the holistic development of women scholars—a mission that resonates strongly with NACDRAO’s century-long advocacy for excellence and opportunity in higher education.
A Legacy Rooted in Purpose
NACDRAO’s presence in Greensboro holds special meaning. The organization was founded by Dr. Theophilus Elisha McKinney during a period when minorities were excluded from many professional organizations. What began as an act of courage and collective necessity evolved into a national association that set standards for accreditation, improved operations across member institutions, and helped to legitimize and strengthen HBCUs nationwide.
Today, NACDRAO continues to champion scholarship opportunities, career pathways, and institutional partnerships that help students thrive—particularly at historically Black colleges and universities.
A Meaningful Partnership
Hosting NACDRAO’s anniversary activities on Bennett’s campus symbolizes a shared future built on collaboration, innovation, and student success. It reflects a partnership rooted in common purpose: shaping institutions that not only educate students but prepare them to lead with excellence.
As NACDRAO steps into its next century of service, Bennett College celebrates its legacy—and looks ahead with hope and determination for what the next 100 years of leadership, equity, and opportunity will bring.
