Zenora E. Gay, Ph.D.
Dr. Zenora E. Gay is Manager of Web Applications and Integrated Solutions at Norfolk State University, where she brings more than 24 years of experience in higher education spanning information technology, student success and faculty outreach initiatives. She previously served as Director of the Undergraduate Research Program STEM research, mentoring, and outreach initiatives to support academic excellence. Dr. Gay earned her Ph.D. in STEM Education and Professional Studies from Old Dominion University in May 2022. Her dissertation, “A Case Study – The Effects of Student Engagement on Academic Achievement in African American Women: Comparing Undergraduate STEM Majors to Non-STEM Majors from a Historically Black College and University,” reflects her deep commitment to advancing equity and outcomes for underrepresented students. Throughout her career, Dr. Gay has managed significant grant funding, including the creation of the Science and Technology Academicians on the Road to Success (STARS) Program. A longtime advocate for aspiring engineers and technologists, she served as Advisor to the National Society of Black Engineers from 2003 to 2017 and held leadership roles within its Public Policy Special Interest Group. She also served as Campus Coordinator for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, earning the organization’s Outstanding Service Award in 2013. Her scholarship includes publications in the Journal of Technology Education and presentations such as “Pathways to the STARS…A Summer Bridge Program to Retain Students.” Dr. Gay’s leadership philosophy centers on intentional service, mentorship, and building sustainable pathways for student achievement in STEM disciplines. A graduate of Lead Virginia (Class of 2025), she continues to contribute to statewide leadership initiatives while fostering partnerships that connect students to research, internships, and career opportunities. Recognized for both her technical expertise and her unwavering dedication to student development, Dr. Gay remains committed to increasing visibility, access, and success for underrepresented populations in higher education.
• Old Dominion University - Ph.D.
• Norfolk State University - M.S. and B.S.CS
• Outstanding Serice Award - TMCF
• LEAD Virginia Class od 2025
• ACE Virginia Network Senior Leadership Seminar Graduate - 2024
• The Virginia Network - Senior Leadership Seminar
• LEAD Virginia Alumni Committee
What do you attribute your success to?
I give all glory to God for my success, for it is through His grace and mercy that I am grounded and sustained, finding balance and strength through every season of life.
Throughout my journey, I’ve been blessed with remarkable trailblazers as mentors. Bishop C. Vernie Russell Jr. has been a profound spiritual guide in my life, and Dr. Sandra J. DeLoatch has been an influential academic leader and mentor who guided and shaped my professional growth.
As a wife, mother, minister, and leader, I rely on my supportive husband, children, and mother to keep me grounded. I’m deeply grateful for my family both near and far, along with my colleagues and friends who make up my tribe; their constant encouragement and unwavering support have made all the difference.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Integrity matters and it will always be the right choice!
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I believe being grounded in service is essential and that leadership should be rooted in intentionality. Systems, regardless of the industry are often slow to change, but choosing to be someone who bridges the gaps can help move progress forward. Choose to create representation, opportunity, and support rather than simply calling attention to their absence. Learn how to build bridges quietly and effectively. Invest in people and help shape their futures. Be an advocate for the next generation of leaders.
At the heart of it all is recognizing what matters most, human capital. When you intentionally cultivate strong relationships in every arena, your work will flourish, especially when faith remains first.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges in my field is how slowly it often adapts to change. At the same time, there is a tremendous opportunity to empower underrepresented groups by increasing their visibility and creating meaningful leadership pathways at both the state and national levels. I am passionate about driving initiatives that address these gaps and foster a more inclusive, forward-thinking environment.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
At the center of everything for me is my faith in God, it’s what has taught me to balance at work and at home. I’ve learned to leave work at work and home at home, keeping my priorities clear. What I’ve come to understand is that human capital is what matters most. When you focus on building genuine relationships in all areas, your efforts will prosper especially when faith comes first.
My family time is my peace. Right now, I’m fully engaged in my six-year-old’s educational and extracurricular activities, his focus is my focus. I believe in championing the next generation of leaders, planting seeds that will bloom for generations to come.