In the Spotlight - March 2026
Welcome to In the Spotlight, a series from the Department of Marketing and Communications designed to highlight the achievements, creativity, and leadership of DSU faculty and staff.
Whether it is earning an award, being published in a journal or magazine, presenting at a conference, securing research funding, completing a major project, or making a meaningful impact in the community, we want to share these moments with the DSU community and beyond. Editions will be released periodically throughout the year.
Click here to view the latest edition with photos included
Dr. Danielle L. Archambault, Associate Vice President in the Office of Student Success, has been selected as a recipient of the Delaware ACE Women’s Network Visionary Award.
The award recognizes women in Delaware higher education who are making meaningful contributions through leadership, innovation, and service within their institutions and communities.
“To be counted among these women is both humbling and deeply motivating,” Dr. Archambault said. “When we lead with purpose, collaboration, and care, we can reimagine what’s possible for our campuses and our communities.”
Christian R. Mills, Career Coach in the Office of Career Services, recently presented at the 2026 National Association of Colleges and Employers HBCU Summit. Her session, “From Day One: Cultivating Career Readiness On The Yard,” highlighted Preparing the Hive, a first-year career readiness initiative she created and leads through DSU’s Office of Career Services.
The initiative focuses on helping students build career readiness by equipping them with the skills and experiences needed for internships and future employment.
“It was incredible to be selected to present this work in a space full of HBCU professionals and employer partners,” Mills said. “When we create strategic and intentional initiatives like this for our first-year students, we give them a head start and a competitive advantage.”
Dr. Cynthia Newton, Director of Partnerships and Programs in the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, and the DSU Biomedical, Behavioral, and Allied Health Center at Capitol Park recently received Charity Crossing’s Valuable Partner Award in recognition of their service to the community and partnership with the organization.
The award honors organizations that have gone above and beyond in supporting community impact efforts. Dr. Newton and the DSU center were among a select group of honorees recognized for their commitment to service in Delaware.
Through its partnership with Charity Crossing, the DSU Biomedical, Behavioral, and Allied Health Center at Capitol Park continues to support outreach efforts that connect health, wellness, and community engagement, reflecting the university’s broader commitment to service and public impact.
Dr. Dawn Mosley, Sr. Associate Vice President in the Department of Marketing and Communications, was honored with the 2026 Legacy of Black Heroes Award from the Booker T. Washington Elementary School Black History Committee. Dr. Mosley was nominated by a student.
“This award symbolizes the profound impact we have as leaders on our youth, reminding us that our roles extend far beyond titles and events,” said Dr. Mosley. It’s a powerful acknowledgment that I take to heart, and I am committed to continuing my service to this community.”
Through her leadership at Delaware State University, Dr. Mosley continues to help highlight student achievements and elevate the voices, experiences, and success stories of Hornets across the university community.
Dr. Lynda Murray-Jackson, Senior Associate Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness, Advisor to the Provost, and MSCHE Accreditation Liaison Officer, has been named one of the Top 50 Voices to Follow in Higher Education for 2026 by Vevox.
Selected from a global pool of nominees, the recognition highlights leaders whose thought leadership, innovation, and impact are helping shape the future of teaching, learning, and institutional transformation.
Dr. Murray-Jackson’s leadership in institutional effectiveness and strategic advancement continues to strengthen Delaware State University’s commitment to student and faculty success. Her work focuses on expanding access, strengthening institutional capacity, and advancing equity and inclusion across the university.
Stannis M. Smith, Vice President of Legal Affairs and General Counsel, was recently featured in the Winter 2026 issue of GW Law Magazine as an alumni newsmaker.
Smith, a graduate of The George Washington University Law School, reflected on how his time there helped shape his approach to leadership and public service. At Delaware State University, he now works closely with university leadership to help navigate complex legal and institutional challenges while supporting the university’s continued growth.
“The practice of law within higher education is often behind the scenes, but it plays a vital role in helping institutions grow responsibly, serve students effectively, and pursue bold ideas that move communities forward,” Smith said.
Dr. Crystal Timmons, Associate Professor and Director of the Office of Clinical Practice and Partnerships in the Education Department, was recently honored with the Legacy of Black Heroes Award from Booker T. Washington Elementary School in Dover, Delaware.
Dr. Timmons has built a distinguished 30-year career in both public education and higher education. She began as an elementary educator in Duval County Public Schools before transitioning into higher education, where she now focuses on strengthening clinical experiences for preservice teachers.
At Delaware State University, she has played a key role in expanding the DSU Capital Connection initiative and building collaborative partnerships designed to prepare future educators to enter the classroom ready to lead and teach on day one.
To be considered for a future edition of In the Spotlight, please send a high-resolution photo and your information to enews [at] desu.edu.