MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. | Florida Memorial University has named Lanitra "Nitra" Perry as Associate Athletic Director for Internal Operations / Senior Woman Leader. Perry brings over 21 years of collegiate experience and is comitted to utilizing her head and assistant coaching experience, leadership and mentorship abilities, and strong communication skills to create a positive, disciplined, and successful environment for student-athletes while supporting the overall mission and growth of the FMU Athletics department.

"I am truly honored and excited to serve as Associate Athletic Director for Internal Operations and Senior Woman Administrator at Florida Memorial University," said Perry. "I am especially grateful that AD Dorsey-Felton and President McCormick entrusted me with the opportunity to serve this athletic department and university. The opportunity to support, lead, and advocate for our coaches and student-athletes aligns directly with my passion and purpose. This work is at the heart of who I am. FMU is a special place, led by an administration that genuinely cares about the success and development of its students. I look forward to helping empower student athletes to succeed in competition, in the classroom, and throughout their lives."

"Nitra brings a wealth of experience, strong leadership skills, and a student-centered approach to Florida Memorial University Athletics, said athletic director, Chandra Dorsey-Felton. "Having served as a student-athlete, coach, and administrator throughout her career, she understands the importance of building meaningful relationships and creating opportunities for success. Her commitment to serving others, supporting coaches, and enhancing the student-athlete experience will be invaluable as we continue to build a culture of excellence at FMU."

Perry was selected as assistant coach for the inaugural season of the Unrivaled League in 2024. She coached for Mist BC from January 2024 to March 2025, where she trained WNBA players like Breanna Stewart, Jewell Loyd, and Courtney Vandersloot. In addition, she served as a trainer for the Lilly Women's College All-Star Combine during the NCAA Women's Final Four in Tampa, Florida. From December 2025 to March 2026, Perry served as assistant coach for Vinyl BC, where she trained WNBA players like Rhyne Howard, Dearica Hamby, and Rae Burrell.

Perry joined Louisiana Tech as associate head coach (2022-2024). She played a major role in the team, where she oversaw perimeter & post player oversight & development, served as defensive coordinator, as was instrumental as a liaison and scouting and recruitment.

Perry was assistant coach/interim head coach at West Virginia University (2020-2022). During her stint, she lead the Mountaineers to a 22-7 mark in her first season that included a Big XII Tournament title game appearance and a spot in the NCAA Tournament Round of 32. Perry worked closely alongside multiple Big XII honorees, including the WNBA's fourth overall selection and All-American, Kysre Gondrezick. She was one of 30 coaches selected to the 2020 WBCA Next Up Leadership Training.

Before her time at West Virginia, Perry served as associate head coach at the University of Toledo (2008-2012, 2018-2020). She led the team to a  131-69 overall record and 68-32 conference record in the Mid-American Conference. The team posted four 20-win seasons during her tenure, winning three MAC West Division titles and earning four Postseason WNIT berths.

Perry served as assistant coach for the University of Memphis (2016-2018). She mentored and directly trained two-time All-American Athletic Conference Player, Cheyenne Creighton. She was also directly responsible for signing two of four (2018-2019) 60th ranked recruiting class.

Perry served as head coach for Kennesaw State University (2012-2016). She guided Kennesaw State to its most successful Division I season in history. She led the team to a 17-13 overall record during the 2014-15 season, placing fourth in the conference standings. Perry also coached her first postseason award recipient, with Jasmine McAllister earning A-Sun Newcomer of the Year honors.

Perry played for Birmingham Power (NWBL) (2003-2004). She was named to American All Stars squad for inaugural NWBL All-Star game (2004) and led the league in average rebounds (13.0) for 2003 NWBL Pro Cup Playoffs. From 2002-2003, Perry played for Rio Major, where she was named team captain. She led the team in scoring, rebounds, assists, and steals.

Perry spent her collegiate career at Mississipi State University (1997-2000). Her accolades include AP All-Southeastern Conference Honorable Mention (1999-2000), SEC All-Tournament Team (2000), SEC Academic Honor Roll (2000), MSU Lady Bulldog Best Defensive Player (1999, 2000), MSU Lady Bulldog Best Rebounder (2000) • MSU Lady Bulldog Coaches Award (1999, 1997) • MSU Lady Bulldog Hustle Award (1998). Perry graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Education in 2000.

 

Follow Florida Memorial University Athletics on social media

Instagram: @GoFMULions | X: @GoFMULions | YouTube: Official FMU Lions