North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon has been named to the 2026 Power 50 “Women of Influence” class by U.S. Black Chambers Inc. (USBC), recognizing her vision and commitment to expanding opportunities for students, communities and future leaders.
Presented by American Airlines, the Power 50 ‘Women of Influence’ initiative celebrates women driving change across business, entertainment, media, finance, public service and philanthropy. This year’s theme, Women Who Lead the Movement, recognizes those who are creating pathways for success and shaping the future.
Since becoming NCCU’s chancellor, Dixon has guided the university through a period of historic growth. She is the first woman to serve as permanent chancellor at two University of North Carolina System institutions, and under her leadership, NCCU surpassed 9,000 students for the first time in its history. The milestone was driven by growth among online, adult and military-affiliated learners, as the university recorded the highest enrollment growth in the UNC System for two consecutive semesters: fall 2024 and spring 2025.
Dixon’s leadership has also accelerated NCCU’s rise as a hub for innovation and excellence. The university became the nation’s first historically Black college or university to establish an artificial intelligence institute, achieved its first clean audit in three years and maintained an affirmed Moody’s rating, milestones that show NCCU’s ability to innovate while strengthening its foundation for the future.
“I am truly humbled to be recognized as one of U.S. Black Chambers Inc.’s Power 50 Women of Influence,” said Dixon. “Every milestone in leadership is shaped by the people who walk alongside us, challenge us, support us and inspire us to keep moving forward. I am grateful to my mentors, colleagues, loved ones and the students who remind me every day why this work matters. I proudly accept this honor on behalf of NCCU and our Eagle community as we continue creating opportunities and preparing the next generation of leaders.”
Dixon’s “Women of Influence” classmates include U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, filmmaker Cheryl Boone Isaacs, award-winning chef and television host Carla Hall, media entrepreneur Issa Rae, entrepreneur Serena Williams and more.
“The Power 50 Women of Influence represent excellence in every sense of the word,” said Ron Busby Sr., president and CEO of U.S. Black Chambers Inc. “This year’s honorees are visionary leaders, barrier breakers and change agents who continue to redefine what is possible.