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


Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), one of the nation’s premier historically Black colleges and universities, is charting a bold course for student success and institutional innovation with the launch of its groundbreaking Presidential Executive-in-Residence Program. At the helm of this visionary initiative is none other than Dr. Mathew Knowles, the powerhouse entrepreneur, branding pioneer, and cultural trailblazer behind the global success of Beyoncé, Destiny’s Child, and Solange.

Slated to begin in the 2025–2026 academic year, this dynamic residency reflects PVAMU’s unwavering commitment to equipping students and faculty with real-world tools, influential networks, and transformative insights. Dr. Knowles, whose legacy includes orchestrating over $100 million in successful business exits and acquisitions, brings decades of leadership across music, branding, and global enterprise.

From running multimillion-dollar campaigns for Pepsi, L’Oréal, and Samsung, to being recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice and receiving the Master of Influence Award from the National Speakers Association, Dr. Knowles stands as an exemplary model of innovation and impact. His presence on campus will ignite fresh possibilities for Prairie View students, particularly those aspiring to launch startups, master storytelling, or reimagine the future of branding.

Empowering the Next Generation of Changemakers

Throughout the fall and spring semesters, Dr. Knowles will lead four high-impact master classes, presented in collaboration with PVAMU’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Department of Languages and Communication. These immersive sessions will delve into:

From Solopreneur to Entrepreneur: Debunking myths, cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset, and shaping a purpose-driven life

Strategic Visibility: Exploring the intersection of brand development, business innovation, and narrative power

Students will engage hands-on in building sustainable ventures, crafting compelling brand identities, and mastering the art of strategic communication across today’s fast-evolving digital media landscape.

Faculty Development Rooted in Visionary Practice

In addition to mentoring students, Dr. Knowles will conduct faculty development workshops focused on entrepreneurial thinking, advanced storytelling, and media-forward pedagogy. These sessions aim to bridge academic theory with industry practice—helping faculty amplify their curricula and inspire future-ready leaders.

A Legacy of Leadership Meets a Legacy of Excellence

Dr. Knowles’ appointment is more than an academic milestone—it’s a statement. It represents Prairie View A&M University’s deep dedication to cultivating a culture of excellence, innovation, and accessibility to global thought leadership.

As PVAMU continues to grow as a national model for educational transformation, the Presidential Executive-in-Residence Program serves as a beacon for what’s possible when academia partners with purpose-driven professionals who are changing the world.

This landmark collaboration is not just preparing students for careers—it’s preparing them to lead revolutions in business, media, and culture.