Jonesboro, AR – Jonesboro Right Now – Arkansas State University faculty and staff, along with Jonesboro community leaders, gathered Wednesday to honor Chancellor Todd Shields as he prepares to assume the role of ASU System President.

During Wednesday’s ceremony, attendees heard remarks from A-State’s chief marketing and communications officer Todd Clark, Jonesboro mayor Harold Copenhaver, ASU System Board of Trustees chair Bishop Robert G. Rudolph Jr., and finally, from Shields himself.

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The ASU System Board of Trustees unanimously voted in favor of Shields’ appointment in May. Current provost and executive vice chancellor Dr. Calvin White will serve as A-State’s interim chancellor, with both of their positions effective July 1.

Shields thanked all those at A-State and within the ASU System he had worked with over the years, honoring them for their dedication and work.

“Thank you all so much. I feel like the best is yet to come. I’m not leaving, I’m literally moving positions and I’ll still be coming back and helping,” Shields said. “I’m really excited for what we’re gonna do next.”

Copenhaver issued a proclamation congratulating Shields on his appointment. He also presented the outgoing chancellor with a key to the city, commending him for his “outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to higher education.”

“You’ve already opened many doors, and this key won’t unlock any doors. But it is a commitment that you know you’re always welcome here in Jonesboro as your home,” Copenhaver said while presenting the key.

Shields will be the fourth ASU System president, succeeding Dr. Brenden Kelly, who announced in December 2025 that he was stepping down to serve as president of Eastern Michigan University.

Shields was named A-State’s chancellor in 2022. He previously served as dean of the Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

Under his leadership at A-State, enrollment increased nearly 30%, and the university broke ground on the state’s first College of Veterinary Medicine. He also helped establish the Center for Advanced Materials and Steel Manufacturing, as well as the Career Readiness Education and Skills Training (CREST) Center.

Rudolph said Shields was the correct choice for the job of the ASU System President.

“He is going to make the Arkansas State University System not the best in the region, not the best in the state, but he’s gonna make it the best in the United States of America,” he said.

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