Presidentially Speaking – 8/24/2026
Dear Paine College Family, Alumni, and Friends,
Welcome to a new academic year at Paine College!
There is something special about the beginning of a new year—the return of our students, the energy across campus, and the opportunity to renew our commitment to the mission and legacy of this great institution.
As we open the 2026–2027 academic year, I am excited about what lies ahead. We are moving forward with purpose, strengthening our academic community, expanding opportunities for our students, and continuing the transformative work that is positioning Paine College for an even brighter future.
To our new Lions—welcome to the Pride! To our returning students, faculty, and staff—welcome home. And to our alumni, donors, partners, and friends, thank you for continuing to believe in and stand with Paine College.
NEW LEADERSHIP. RENEWED VISION.
As we begin this new academic year, I am pleased to welcome two outstanding leaders to the Paine College leadership team.
Dr. Tywana Chenault Hemby
Provost & Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs
Dr. Hemby brings a wealth of experience in higher education leadership and a deep commitment to academic excellence and student success. As our chief academic officer, she will provide leadership for the College’s academic programs and work collaboratively with our faculty and administration to strengthen the educational experience of every Paine College student.
Mrs. Andrea Riley
Athletic Director
Mrs. Riley brings a strong commitment to advancing Lion Athletics and developing student-athletes who excel in competition, in the classroom, and in life. Under her leadership, we look forward to strengthening our athletic programs and building upon the pride and tradition of Paine College Athletics.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Hemby and Mrs. Riley to the Paine College family.
OPENING CONVOCATION: INSPIRED FOR THE YEAR AHEAD
Paine College extends our heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Kendricks D. Hooker, President of Augusta Technical College, for joining the Paine College family as the featured speaker for our 2026 Opening Convocation.
Dr. Hooker delivered an inspiring and encouraging message that challenged our students to embrace the opportunities before them, remain committed to their goals, and make the most of their educational journey. His words provided a meaningful start to the academic year and reminded us of the power of purpose, perseverance, and preparation.
We are grateful to Dr. Hooker for sharing his time, wisdom, and leadership with our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends.
Thank you, Dr. Hooker, for helping us begin the year inspired, encouraged, and ready to move Paine College forward.
The year has begun. The purpose is clear. And the Paine College Lions are ready to ROAR!
FALL II ENROLLMENT IS OPEN: IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO BECOME A LION!
There has never been a better time to consider Paine College.
We are continuing to remove barriers and create greater access to a Paine College education. Enrollment for our Fall II Session remains open, and we want prospective students to know that the door to becoming a Lion is still open.
Our new Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Tywana Chenault Hemby, shares this message with prospective Lions:
“Great news for prospective Paine College students: we’ve recently eliminated a major hurdle that has kept many talented students from pursuing their education with us.
Our admissions process is more accessible than ever, and there has never been a better time to join the Paine family.
Enrollment for Fall II remains open, and we are eager to welcome you into the Pride! Whether you’ve been waiting for the right moment or thought the door had closed—it hasn’t. It’s not too late.
Come cultivate your purpose, collaborate with a community that believes in you, and transform your future at Paine College.
Apply today. The Pride is waiting for you.”
— Dr. Tywana Chenault Hemby
Provost & Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs
Whether you are a first-time college student, transfer student, or someone who started your college journey but did not finish, Paine College is ready to welcome you.
Your purpose is waiting. Your future is calling. Your Pride is ready.
IGNITE: CATCH ON FIRE FOR PAINE COLLEGE
As we welcome students back, introduce new leadership, and open our doors to the next generation of Lions, we are reminded that the future of Paine College belongs to all of us.
That is why I am calling on the entire Paine College family to IGNITE and Catch on Fire for Paine College.
IGNITE your passion.
IGNITE your commitment.
IGNITE your giving.
IGNITE our future.
Every gift—regardless of size—helps us provide scholarships, strengthen academic programs, enhance the student experience, support our faculty and staff, and ensure that future generations have access to the transformative power of a Paine College education.
To our alumni: Catch on Fire.
To our faculty and staff: Catch on Fire.
To our friends and community partners: Catch on Fire.
To everyone who believes in what Paine College has been, what we are today, and what we are becoming: Catch on Fire.
Together, let us IGNITE the future of Paine College.
With Lion Pride,
Lester A. McCorn, D.Min.
President
Paine College
Excellence Without Excuse
Paine College
Paine College is a historically Black liberal arts institution located in Augusta, Georgia. Founded in 1882 through a partnership between the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church and the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, Paine College is dedicated to providing a liberal arts education of the highest quality- emphasizing academic excellence, ethical and spiritual values, social responsibility, and personal development. For more information, visit Paine online.
