Introduction of Chancellor

Introduction for Speaking Engagements

Robert L. Potts
Chancellor, Arkansas State University-Jonesboro

Robert L. Potts is the first chancellor of Arkansas State University-Jonesboro.  The veteran administrator in higher education was selected to lead the Jonesboro campus beginning in November 2006.  Serving a broad area of Arkansas and portions of surrounding states, Arkansas State University-Jonesboro enrolled 11,490 students in the fall of 2008. The institution also has more than 60,000 alumni.

Arkansas State University enjoys a reputation as a high quality comprehensive institution of higher education now moving toward doctoral/research status.  The university provides students with the broad educational foundations that help develop critical thinking and analytical skills, decision-making capabilities, and communication skills. 

Chancellor Potts has had a distinguished career in higher education, serving as the chancellor of the North Dakota University System before moving to Jonesboro.  Previously, he served as president of the University of North Alabama for more than 14 years. Earlier in his career he was general counsel for the University of Alabama System.

Dr. Potts graduated cum laude from Southern Adventist University, Collegedale, Tennessee, with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He graduated from the University of Alabama School of Law with a Juris Doctor degree, and served as an editor of the Alabama Law Review. He graduated from Harvard University with a Master of Laws degree.  Having served full time in higher education administrative positions for more than 25 years, Potts has spoken and lectured widely, and is the author of numerous columns and articles.