Under Dr. Abdullah’s leadership, VSU has experienced yearly enrollment growth and the highest retention rate in over twenty years. The University also increased the 4-year graduation rate to the highest recorded rate in the University's history. In 2023, VSU made history as the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) ever selected to host a General Election U.S. Presidential Debate.  

His leadership has helped VSU gain a reputation as one of the most prestigious HBCUs in the country. In 2023, VSU was ranked as the No. 1 HBCU in Virginia by Washington Monthly Magazine and as the No. 13 HBCU nationally by College Consensus. In recent years, the University has extended its academic offerings with newly added undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. Additionally, the University offers fully online programs/degrees and a free tuition program for students from area high schools. 

Dr. Abdullah has led the launch of several major initiatives since taking office. These include the establishment of the John Mercer Langston Institute for African American Political Leadership to assess, develop and empower African American leaders; the establishment of The Center for Policing Leadership and Social Justice to address the critical divide between law enforcement and communities of color; and the establishment of the Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging on campus to promote good relations toward and support those who may be subject to discrimination.