Spelman College has appointed Breana M. Ware as its inaugural General Counsel, marking a significant development in the institution’s leadership structure. Ware, who began her tenure on February 16, reports directly to Interim President Rosalind “Roz” Brewer and joins the senior leadership team. This appointment is a key component of the “Future Ready Spelman” initiative, aimed at enhancing the college’s institutional resilience in a complex national and socioeconomic landscape.
In her role, Ware serves as the principal legal advisor to the President, Board of Trustees, and senior administration, ensuring that Spelman’s mission is supported by a proactive and strategic legal framework. The establishment of this cabinet-level position underscores the college’s commitment to navigating evolving regulatory environments and the dynamic demands of higher education.
Interim President Brewer emphasized the importance of this appointment, stating, “In this era of rapid change, institutional stewardship is more critical than ever. Breana Ware is not only a seasoned legal expert but a strategic partner who will help us streamline our operations and safeguard our legacy. This hire is a direct investment in Spelman’s future, ensuring we remain the premier institution for women of African descent for generations to come.”
Ware brings over 12 years of high-level legal experience spanning both corporate and academic sectors. Prior to joining Spelman, she served as Vice President – Counsel for a national development and construction firm. Her experience in academia includes nearly six years on the Legal Affairs team at Kennesaw State University, where she specialized in higher education law, policy development, complex contract negotiations, students’ rights, and regulatory compliance.
Ware earned her Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School and graduated summa cum laude from Boston College with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature. Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Ware stated, “I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to join Spelman College at such a pivotal moment. I look forward to working alongside President Brewer and this distinguished community to fortify the foundation of this historic institution and support its bold path forward.”
Spelman College, founded in 1881 as the Atlanta Baptist Female Seminary, is a private, historically Black women’s liberal arts college in Atlanta, Georgia. It is the oldest private historically Black liberal arts institution for women and a founding member of the Atlanta University Center academic consortium. The college has a rich history of academic excellence and a commitment to empowering women of African descent.
The creation of the General Counsel position at Spelman aligns with a broader trend in higher education institutions recognizing the need for dedicated in-house legal expertise. For instance, in 2010, Pennsylvania State University appointed Cynthia Baldwin as its first General Counsel, reflecting a similar commitment to proactive legal oversight within academic institutions.
Ware’s appointment signifies Spelman’s proactive approach to legal affairs, ensuring the college is well-equipped to address the complexities of the modern educational landscape while upholding its mission and values.