Forrest Black

Forrest Black serves as the Executive Director for Distance Education and Professional Studies at Virginia State University, focusing on the strategic advancement of online learning and distance education programs while ensuring alignment with accreditation standards and institutional priorities. Previously, Forrest held the position of Director of Military Affairs and Workforce Education, as well as Director of Military Science at the same institution, achieving a remarkable retention rate of over 95% among contracted cadets and facilitating the commissioning of more than 70 Second Lieutenants. Forrest’s extensive military background includes roles such as Deputy Director at the 193rd Infantry Brigade, Assistant to the Managing Director at the Defense Contract Management Agency, and various leadership positions within the U.S. Army, emphasizing logistics, operations, and training across several military organizations. Academic credentials include a degree in Transportation and Logistics Management from American Military University and a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies from Norfolk State University.