ITTA BENA, Miss.—Mississippi Valley State University has named Dr. Alecia Shields-Gadson as its new Director of Athletics, effective Tuesday, July 15. With more than 25 years of experience in collegiate athletics leadership, Shields-Gadson brings a record of strategic innovation, competitive success, and student-athlete advocacy to the Delta Devils family.
Shields-Gadson most recently served as Deputy Athletic Director at Alcorn State University, where she was responsible for strategic planning, executive consultation, and departmental oversight. Prior to her time at Alcorn, she served as Director of Athletics at Delaware State University, where she led 19 Division I varsity programs to historic achievements, including conference titles, national competition appearances, and a landmark $1 million private donation to support athletics.
Under her leadership at Delaware State, the university launched the nation’s first Division I women’s varsity wrestling program and underwent significant athletic facilities transformation. Her efforts also included successful Title IX equity planning, increased student-athlete academic support, and major conference alignments.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Alecia Shields-Gadson to Mississippi Valley State University,” said MVSU President Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr. “Her extensive experience, transformational leadership, and proven track record in athletics administration will be instrumental as we continue to elevate MVSU Athletics and enhance the student-athlete experience. We look forward to the future under her direction.”
Shields-Gadson has held multiple leadership roles at institutions across the country, including Coppin State University and Alcorn State, where she began her career as head track and field coach and Senior Woman Administrator. She is a former NCAA Leadership Development Fellow and has served on numerous NCAA and conference committees, including the NCAA Division I Council and the Competition Oversight Committee.
In accepting the role, Shields-Gadson expressed her gratitude and her forward-looking vision for the program.
“I want to first thank President Dr. Jerryl Briggs, along with the search committee, for entrusting me with this opportunity to guide Mississippi Valley State University on the path to success as we begin the journey of blazing our own path,” Shields-Gadson said.
“My vision for MVSU Athletics is one of growth, excellence, and unwavering commitment to our most prized possessions—our student-athletes. The goals are focused on competitive success, sustainability, and expanding our footprint, while creating a supportive and enriching environment where student-athletes can thrive academically, athletically, and personally.”
Shields-Gadson holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Delaware State University, a Master of Science in Physical Education from Alcorn State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism from Southern University and A&M College.
She becomes the second woman to serve as Director of Athletics at MVSU and steps into the role with a strategic focus on excellence, equity, and student-centered leadership.
Mississippi Valley State University also extends its appreciation to Collegiate Consulting, the national athletics consulting firm that assisted in the search process.