Colette Burnette

Colette Pierce Burnette is an accomplished educational leader and administrator with a distinguished career in higher education. She served as the President and CEO of Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, Texas.1 As a native of Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Burnette made history by becoming the first female president of Huston-Tillotson University.1

Career Highlights

Higher Education Leadership: Dr. Burnette's experience in higher education administration is extensive. Prior to her role at Huston-Tillotson, she served as the first female president of Central State University in 2012.4 Her career has included various administrative positions in higher education, demonstrating her commitment to academic leadership and institutional development.

Current Endeavors: As of 2024, Dr. Burnette has transitioned to new roles. She is currently serving as:

• Education Ambassador & Solutions Innovator at T-Mobile for Education
• Author
• Speaker
• Executive Coach & Mentor
• Educational Leadership Advisor2

Passion for Mentorship

Dr. Burnette is deeply committed to mentoring young people, viewing it as a rewarding and impactful activity. She has expressed her enthusiasm for celebrating student success and supporting the next generation of leaders.3

Recognition and Influence

Dr. Burnette's expertise and leadership have been recognized in various forums. She has been invited to speak on important topics such as equity in education and organizational leadership. Her insights on making equity more than just a buzzword have been featured in podcasts and discussions with other changemakers.5

Throughout her career, Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette has demonstrated a strong commitment to education, leadership, and fostering student success. Her diverse roles and experiences have positioned her as a respected figure in the field of higher education and beyond.