Board of Trustees welcomes science and investment leaders Dr. Daniel Linzer and Mr. Tyson Anwar Pratcher ’97; Michael D. Armstrong ’94 named new Chair following retirement of Wesley A. Coleman II ’71
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HAMPTON, Va. (June 10, 2025) — Hampton University is proud to announce the appointment of two distinguished professionals to its Board of Trustees: Dr. Daniel I. Linzer, President and CEO of the Research Corporation for Science Advancement, and Mr. Tyson Anwar Pratcher ’97, Senior Managing Director at Artemis Real Estate Partners. The new appointments reflect Hampton’s ongoing commitment to expanding the expertise and reach of its governing body, as the university continues to implement Elevating Hampton Excellence, its 10-year strategic plan.
“As Hampton positions itself for an ambitious future rooted in research, innovation, and inclusive growth, the expansion of our board with leaders like Dr. Linzer and Mr. Pratcher signals the breadth of our vision,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams. “Their global experience in science, philanthropy, and investment aligns directly with our bold aspirations—especially as we build the foundation to achieve R1 designation and long-term institutional sustainability.”
Board Bench Strength Reflects Strategic Priorities
Dr. Daniel I. Linzer, a renowned molecular biologist, currently serves as President of the Research Corporation for Science Advancement (RCSA)—one of the oldest private foundations in the United States dedicated to advancing early-stage, high-impact scientific research. Under his leadership, the foundation has expanded innovative initiatives such as Scialog, which brings together early-career scientists to collaborate on pressing global challenges in fields like energy, sustainability, and astrobiology.
Before leading RCSA, Dr. Linzer spent more than 30 years at Northwestern University, where he held influential academic leadership roles including Provost and Dean of the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences. During his tenure, he championed interdisciplinary collaboration, expanded research infrastructure, and led transformative faculty hires that elevated Northwestern’s national profile as a research institution.
A respected scholar in the field of hormone action, Dr. Linzer’s scientific contributions have been widely published and supported by major research agencies, including the National Institutes of Health. His appointment to Hampton’s Board of Trustees brings strategic insight into science leadership, research development, and philanthropy—critical areas as the university pursues R1 designation and invests in academic excellence.
Tyson Anwar Pratcher, Esq. ’97, a Hampton alumnus, is a nationally recognized investment executive with a dynamic portfolio of leadership roles across public and private sectors. He currently serves as a senior leader at Artemis Real Estate Partners, a $10 billion real estate firm known for advancing innovative investment strategies across institutional real estate markets. Mr. Pratcher also serves on the boards of Finance of America (NYSE:FOA) and FS Credit Income Fund.
Previously, Mr. Pratcher held a senior role at the New York State Common Retirement Fund, where he led pioneering efforts in investing and portfolio innovation. His work focused on expanding access to capital and identifying high-growth investment opportunities aligned with long-term value creation.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Pratcher served as Deputy Chief of Staff to U.S. Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton and as an associate at the international law firm Davis, Polk & Wardwell. With deep expertise in finance, public policy, and strategic partnerships, Mr. Pratcher brings valuable perspective to Hampton’s Board—supporting its goal of growing the university’s endowment and strengthening its financial foundation for future generations.
The addition of Dr. Linzer and Mr. Pratcher to the Hampton University Board of Trustees reflects the university’s commitment to strengthening its leadership in areas that align with its strategic goals. These two leaders bring significant expertise in fields such as science, philanthropy, investment, and strategic innovation, which directly support Hampton’s efforts to achieve its long-term vision, including securing R1 research university status, expanding its research capacity, and increasing its endowment.
Wesley A. Coleman ’71 Retires After 18 Years of Visionary Leadership
This transition also marks a pivotal leadership change: Michael D. Armstrong ’94, a global media executive and longtime trustee, has been elected as Chair of the Board of Trustees, succeeding Wesley A. Coleman ’71, who is retiring after 18 years of exemplary service.
A proud alumnus and advocate for student success, Wes Coleman was instrumental in shaping the university’s strategic vision and strengthening its financial and academic footing. He played a critical role in the presidential transition to LTG (ret) Darrell K. Williams and guided the board through the adoption of Hampton’s bold 10-year strategic plan. His leadership emphasized accountability, corporate best practices, and long-term sustainability.
“The Hampton University community extends its deepest gratitude to Wes Coleman. He brought principled leadership, corporate rigor, and unwavering love for Hampton to every meeting, every moment,” said President Williams. “He has set the gold standard for trustee leadership, and we are forever grateful for his stewardship and vision.”
Members of the Hampton University Board of Trustees (beginning July 1, 2025)
- Michael D. Armstrong ’94, Chair
Emmy-nominated media executive and strategic advisor known for his leadership at ViacomCBS and Paramount, with deep expertise in global brand development and content strategy.
- Nicole Pullen Ross ’94, Vice Chair
Head of New York Private Wealth Management/Sports & Entertainment Solutions Group at Goldman Sachs, committed to financial inclusion and excellence.
- Andrea M. Weiss, Secretary
CEO at Retail Consulting, Inc, a retail strategist and corporate board veteran with deep experience in global consumer brands and e-commerce.
- E.D. “Buddy” David, Esq., Treasurer
Managing Partner of David, Kamp & Frank, LLC, a veteran legal counsel and business advisor, widely respected for his dedication to public service and education.
- Lt. Gen. Darrell K. Williams (USA, Retired) ’83, President, Ex Officio
President of Hampton University and retired three-star general, guiding the institution’s strategic vision and transformation.
- Pleasant S. Brodnax, III, Esq. ’83
Principal of the Law Office of Pleasant S. Brodnax, III, a distinguished trial attorney and advocate with decades of experience in criminal defense and civil rights law.
- Sashi Y. Brown, Esq. ’98
President of the Baltimore Ravens, bringing strategic acumen in sports, business, and law to board governance.
- Calvin L. Butts Jr. ’02
General Partner/CoFounder of East Chop Capital, LLC and President of CB3 Holdings, a real estate professional and civic leader dedicated to economic empowerment and educational advancement.
- Gerard “Gerry” A. Fasano
Former Chief Growth Officer at Leidos, with extensive experience in defense, intelligence, and national security leadership.
- James T. George ’58
Founder and Chairman of the Board at Management Support Technology, Inc., a Hampton alumnus and accomplished business leader, with a longstanding commitment to alumni engagement and philanthropy.
- Michele L. Jawando, Esq. ’02
President of Omidyar Network, a legal and policy expert, and new President of Omidyar Network, with a focus on equity and social justice.
- Rashida Jones ’02, ’24
Former President of MSNBC and media trailblazer, recognized as the first Black woman to lead a major cable news network.
- Derek R. Lewis ’88
Author/Entrepreneur/Board Director and former President of PepsiCo Beverages North America South Division, known for transformational leadership and community advocacy.
- Daniel I. Linzer, Ph.D.
President of the Research Corporation for Science Advancement and former Provost of Northwestern University, known for his contributions to molecular biology and higher education leadership.
- Leslie D.J. Patterson ’93
Partner — U.S. and Americas Inclusiveness Leader at Ernst & Young, LLP, a finance and accounting executive with deep expertise in audit, risk, and corporate compliance.
- Melonie Parker ’88
Chief Diversity Officer at Google, recognized for championing inclusive workplaces and equitable leadership.
- Tyson Anwar Pratcher, Esq. ’97
Senior Managing Director at Artemis Real Estate Partners, with an accomplished career in global asset management, public policy, and investment strategy.
- Zachary B. Scott ’78
President & CEO of EboxSecure Logistics Group, a corporate finance and operations expert with a legacy of leadership across business and nonprofit sectors.
- David B. Stith ’80
Managing Director & Regional Head of Leveraged Finance of Bank of America, a seasoned financial executive and civic leader with a strong commitment to higher education and community development.
- Charles “Chuck” H. Whiteman, Ph.D.
Former Dean of Smeal College of Business at Pennsylvania State University, a leader in higher education with expertise in academic administration and business school management.
ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Hampton University is a Carnegie R2-designated research institution, recognized for its groundbreaking research in atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity. Contributing $530 million annually to the regional and Commonwealth of Virginia economies, Hampton plays a vital role in driving economic development while championing diversity, inclusion, and opportunity. The university was recently named one of the “Best Colleges in America” by Money Magazine and recognized as the “Best Private College” by Coastal Virginia.
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a close-knit community of learners and educators, representing 44 states and 32 territories, committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship. Visit: www.hamptonu.edu.
For media inquiries, please contact Richelle Payne in the Office of University Relations at 757-727-5253 or richelle.payne@hamptonu.edu.
