Belhaven Names New Chair of Doctor of Business Administration
JACKSON, Miss. (Aug. 26, 2025) — Belhaven University has appointed Dr. Zonzie McLaurin as Professor and Chair of the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program. McLaurin, a nationally recognized healthcare executive and leadership scholar, has served as adjunct faculty at Belhaven since 2009.
“Dr. Zonzie McLaurin brings to our DBA program a rare combination of executive leadership, academic scholarship, and a deep commitment to student transformation,” said Dr. Brett Andrews, Belhaven University’s Dean of the School of Business. “Her vision for developing purpose-driven leaders aligns perfectly with Belhaven’s mission, and we are thrilled to welcome her.”
Dr. McLaurin has more than 30 years of experience driving organizational change and strategic excellence. She holds a Doctor of Health Administration from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, a Master of Public Health from Walden University, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration from Baker College. Her expertise spans healthcare leadership, strategic business transformation, inclusive leadership development, and emotional intelligence as a catalyst for high-impact leadership.
Before joining Belhaven full time, McLaurin served 28 years in progressively senior roles at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, securing more than $54 million in funding and leading systemic organizational transformation. As CEO and founder of Dr. Zonzie McLaurin International LLC, she has helped clients generate over $20 million in revenue through strategic consulting and executive coaching.
A prolific speaker and thought leader, McLaurin has delivered more than 500 keynote addresses on transformational leadership, healthcare equity, and organizational culture. She hosts the internationally recognized podcast “Powerful Purpose with Dr. Zonzie McLaurin,” reaching audiences in over 20 countries.
Her scholarly work focuses on organizational wellness, emotional intelligence, belonging strategies, and sustainable community health models. She received the City of Jackson Hometown Hero Award in 2023 and the Outstanding Board Member Award from The Association of Junior Leagues International in 2024.
McLaurin also serves on multiple national and local boards, including the American College of Healthcare Executives and Belhaven University’s School of Business Advisory Board. She is a passionate advocate for empowering underserved communities, cultivating leaders who drive lasting societal impact.