Coppin State Appoints Vice President of Information Technology and Dean of College of Health Professions from Interim Positions

“Dr. Curbeam and Dr. Tilghman have demonstrated dedication and vision in their interim positions. Their passion for academic excellence, student success, and community engagement is testament to their positive impact at Coppin State. We look forward to their continued leadership as they help us achieve new heights,” said President Anthony L. Jenkins. 

Dionne N. Curbeam, Ed.D., Vice President of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer  

Dr. Curbeam joined Coppin State in 2007 and has served as Interim Vice President of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer since November 2022. During this time, she has provided strategic leadership and guidance to the Information Technology Division, Web Services, Academic Computing, Administrative Computing, Training and Support Services, Help Desk, Telecommunications, Infrastructure Services, and IT Privacy & Security.  

“I am honored to be the first African American woman to become a vice president of IT/CIO at an institution within the University System of Maryland. This appointment signifies a remarkable opportunity to break barriers as a woman of color in technology leadership and pave the way for future generations of women in technology,” said Dr. Curbeam.   

With a strong background in educational technology and higher education administration, Dr. Curbeam brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that has enhanced the university's infrastructure and digital capabilities.  

“My vision is for the Division of Information Technology to be at the forefront of digital transformation in education. By embracing emerging technologies, implementing forward-thinking strategies, and deploying cutting-edge solutions, I want to ensure that Coppin will thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape. I look forward to collaborating with our talented faculty, staff, and students to cultivate a university environment where technology serves as a catalyst for growth and success,” said Dr. Curbeam.  

Dr. Curbeam has won several awards, presented at numerous conferences, earned multiple certifications, and has served on numerous boards and advisory councils. 

She holds an Ed.D. in Education Leadership from Bowie State University, a Master of Arts in instructional system development from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and a Master of Arts in organizational communications from Towson University. Additionally, she earned a Bachelor of Science in journalism also from Bowie.  

Dr. Curbeam's appointment is effective July 10.  

Joan S. Tilghman, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Health Professions  

Dr. Joan Tilghman is a nationally certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator. Dr. Tilghman has served as a chairperson, associate dean, and interim dean for the College of Health Professions. 

“My journey at Coppin began as an adjunct faculty member, where I immediately acknowledged the dedication of the faculty, staff, and students, leading me to feel a sense of belonging. Throughout my tenure, I have taught various courses, served in administrative roles, and engaged in interdisciplinary research. The collegial spirit and the shared dedication to our students and community resonate deeply with me. On a personal level, I have the support of my amazing family, particularly my beloved husband, that sustains me,” said Dr. Tilghman.  

Dr. Tilghman has a proven track record of leadership and excellence in academia. She spearheaded the development of Coppin State University’s inaugural and subsequent doctoral nursing degree programs and has received more than $12 million in funding for research and advancing graduate nursing education. She has chaired more than six successful accreditation and accreditation site visits for the Helene Fuld School of Nursing.  

“Witnessing the evolution of our programs and initiatives has been rewarding. The College of Health Professions at Coppin is well-positioned to introduce new graduate and baccalaureate program offerings through the School of Allied Health and School of Nursing. By leveraging our clinics at Coppin Academy, St. Frances Academy, and the Community Health Center, we intend to strengthen our community engagement initiatives in promoting optimal health and well-being for all, including local residents,” said Dr. Tilghman. “Our community service and research engagement are evolving through partnerships with federal and state agencies to better serve our students and community stakeholders. Looking forward, I am optimistic and excited. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of knowledge, inspiring and being inspired, and profoundly impacting the health and well-being of our world.”  
 
She actively engages in initiatives promoting growth within the College of Health Professions and Coppin State University. She also sits on the DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) program Advisory Board at the University of Maryland. Dr. Tilghman’s expertise extends to serving as an evaluator and accreditation site visitor for the Middle States Higher Commission on Education Evaluation team. Furthermore, she collaborates with the Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing on the innovative R3- Renewal, Resilience, and Retention of Maryland Nurses Program, which aims to enhance resilience and well-being among nursing students, faculty, and educators statewide. 

She also serves on the National Advisory Council for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) through the HBCU Center for Excellence in Behavioral Health at Clark Atlanta University. 
 
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Dr. Tilghman was named one of Maryland's Top 100 Women in 2017 and 2019. In 2023, she received the prestigious Maryland Top 100 Women Circle of Excellence award. 

Dr. Tilghman's appointment is effective July 10.