TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Brenda C. Spencer is the newly appointed director of retention in the Office of Academic Affairs at Florida A&M University (FAMU).

She will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies to increase the retention, progress and graduation rates of students attending FAMU.

Prior to her current appointment, Spencer played an integral role in the grant proposal and planning process for the FAMU proposed dental school.

“I am excited about returning to my alma mater and having the opportunity to positively impact the lives of students,” said Spencer. “I believe that retention is everyone’s responsibility as it relates to how we interact with students on a daily basis. It is important to show students that we care and equip them with the tools and skills needed to achieve academic and career success.”

Spencer has extensive experience in counseling students with academic, personal and career issues; academic and student affairs administration; transfer and articulation; testing and adult and workforce education. She is a member of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), National Academic Advising Association (NACADA), American Grant Writer’s Association (AGWA), among other professional organizations.

Spencer is a native of Tallahassee and a FAMU graduate. She received her bachelor’s degree in computer information systems and a master’s degree in adult education administration from FAMU and a Ph.D. in higher education administration from Florida State University with an emphasis in minority student retention issues.