Jenkins Returns Home to Lead SUNO Track & Field Program, Continuing a Championship Legacy
February 13, 2026
NEW ORLEANS, LA– Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) Director of Athletics James A. Matthews III has announced the hiring of Safia Jenkins as the new Head Coach of the Knights' Men's and Women's Track and Field programs — a move that reflects not only the future of the program, but the strength of its foundation.
For SUNO Athletics, this is more than a hire. It is the continuance of a legacy.
A proud alumna and former champion, Jenkins understands the heartbeat of SUNO because she has lived it. From the classrooms to the track, from long practices to championship podiums, she embodies the resilience, excellence, and community spirit that define the Knights.
"I am deeply honored to serve as the Head Coach of the Track and Field program," Jenkins said. "This university played a transformative role in my life — not only shaping me as an athlete, but also as a leader and person. To now have the opportunity to guide the next generation of student-athletes is both humbling and incredibly meaningful.
"As a former athlete here, I understand the pride, tradition, and standard of excellence that define this program. My vision is to build on that legacy of greatness on the track, in the classroom, and in the community. I am committed to developing champions in competition and in life.
"I look forward to working alongside our student-athletes, staff, alumni, and supporters as we write the next chapter of Southern University at New Orleans Track and Field.
"Lastly, I would like to sincerely thank Athletic Director Matthews for this opportunity and for believing in me. I am excited to work alongside him and the entire SUNO Athletics Department as we move this program forward together."
Jenkins' return to lead the program is a full-circle moment. Hailing from Porus, Manchester, Jamaica, she arrived at SUNO in 2009 on a full athletic scholarship and quickly etched her name into program history. She captured the 400-meter title at the GCAC Outdoor Track & Field Championship and was a two-time 4x400-meter relay champion. On the national stage, she earned multiple All-American honors at the NAIA Outdoor Track & Field Championships in both the 400 meters and the 4x400-meter relay.
Yet her impact at SUNO has never been limited to competition.
A two-time SUNO graduate, Jenkins earned a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems. She has served the university in multiple leadership capacities, including Athletic Graduate Assistant, Learning Outcomes Assessment and Testing Coordinator, International Admissions Advisor, and currently International Affairs Coordinator and Designated School Official.
Her deep institutional knowledge — from compliance and eligibility to recruitment, retention, and student development — gives her a comprehensive understanding of what it takes for student-athletes to thrive at SUNO. She understands the unique mission of the university, the importance of access and opportunity, and the responsibility of serving a diverse student population with intention and care.
Her hire reflects Director of Athletics Matthews' continued commitment to growing SUNO Athletics by investing in people who are invested in the program.
Under Matthews' leadership, the department has emphasized providing meaningful opportunities to individuals who understand the culture, believe in the mission, and are committed to the holistic development of SUNO student-athletes. Jenkins' appointment is a direct reflection of that vision — elevating leaders who have demonstrated loyalty, excellence, and a deep connection to the university.
This move signals continuity, stability, and belief in homegrown leadership. It affirms that SUNO Athletics values those who pour into the institution and are dedicated to building something lasting.
As SUNO Track and Field moves forward, it does so under the guidance of a coach who understands the championship standard because she helped establish it — and who is prepared to raise it even higher.
With a champion's résumé, an administrator's insight, and a Knight's heart, Safia Jenkins now leads a program she once proudly represented — ensuring that the legacy of excellence at SUNO continues for generations to come.
For more information on SUNO Athletics, visit sunoathletics.com.
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The Southern University at New Orleans Knights Department of Athletics emphasizes competitive excellence, academic achievement and community engagement. For the full 2025–26 schedule, rosters, and ticket information, visit sunoathletics.com and follow @sunoathletics on social media.