Prairie View A&M University Welcomes Dr. Mathew Knowles as Initial Executive-in-Residence

Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) has launched its Presidential Executive-in-Residence Program, marking a significant milestone for the institution. As part of this new initiative, PVAMU is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Mathew Knowles as its very first Executive-in-Residence for the academic year 2025-2026. This innovative program aims to bridge the gap between academia and the industry by connecting students and faculty with leading figures whose careers have significantly influenced both business and culture.

Dr. Knowles is no stranger to success, having established himself as a prominent entrepreneur, branding strategist, and cultural icon responsible for the careers of legendary music artists such as Beyoncé, Destiny's Child, and Solange. With a storied career featuring over $100 million in successful business exits and acquisitions, as well as groundbreaking promotional campaigns for major corporations like Pepsi, L'Oréal, and Samsung, Dr. Knowles’ wealth of experience is set to greatly enrich the educational landscape at PVAMU.

Master Classes and Workshops

Throughout the fall and spring semesters, Dr. Knowles will engage students through a series of four master classes, two in each term. These sessions, designed in collaboration with the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Department of Languages and Communication, promise to provide students with hands-on experience in essential areas.

Master Class Topics Include:
1. From Solopreneur to Entrepreneur: This class aims to debunk common myths surrounding entrepreneurship, help students embrace the right mindset, and teach them how to create meaningful work.
2. Strategic Visibility: Here, students will learn about the relationship between branding, business, and the influential power of storytelling.

These interactive sessions offer insights into launching purpose-driven ventures, designing impactful communication strategies, and navigating the evolving landscape of business and media. Additionally, Dr. Knowles will administer two specialized faculty development workshops focused on fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and advancing innovative strategies in branding and media.

These sessions will uniquely blend academic theory with real-world application, empowering faculty at PVAMU to enhance their teaching and better prepare students for their future careers.

Commitment to Excellence and Leadership

Dr. Knowles’ presence at PVAMU is a testament to the university's commitment to instilling visionary leadership within its academic framework. The Presidential Executive-in-Residence Program reinforces PVAMU’s reputation as a national benchmark for student achievement, innovation, and the transformative potential of education.

Recognized not only for his immense contributions to the music industry but also as a LinkedIn Top Voice and recipient of the National Speakers Association's Master of Influence Award, Dr. Knowles is a respected authority in his field. His appointment is poised to inspire both students and faculty alike, fostering an environment of creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that emphasizes real-world application in building future-ready professionals.

For anyone interested in learning more about the Presidential Executive-in-Residence Program or wishing to conduct interviews with Dr. Knowles or PVAMU leadership, the university has designated communications professionals available for inquiries.

Founded in 1876, Prairie View A&M University is Texas’ second oldest public institution of higher learning and stands as the third largest Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in the nation. With over 9,000 students enrolled and more than 80,000 graduates, PVAMU is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service. As a Carnegie-classified high-research (R2) university and a member of The Texas A&M University System, it aims to fulfill its land-grant mission.

For further details on their programs or Dr. Knowles’ involvement, visit PVAMU's website.