Advocacy, Experience and Alumni Pride: DeWitt Joins CSU Leadership

Marc DeWitt’s professional journey through higher education has taken him across residence halls, conduct offices, provost suites, and cultural centers. This fall, it brought him back to where it began. 

DeWitt, a Central State University Class of 2003 alumnus, returned to his alma mater on Nov. 17, 2025, as Director of the Office of the Student Ombudsman, marking his sixth official role at the university and more than two decades of service in higher education. 

A career shaped by student advocacy 

The Office of Student Ombudsman at Central State University was established in 2024 to provide a neutral, confidential, and independent resource to assist students in resolving concerns and navigating challenges within the University.  The office assists students in resolving conflicts through informal methods such as mediation, negotiation, and conflict coaching.  

“As a student ombudsman, my job is to advocate for students,” DeWitt said. “Sometimes that advocacy looks like helping students understand policy. Sometimes it means softening a blow. And sometimes it’s finding collaborations that don’t naturally exist — all in the interest of keeping students connected to the institution.” 

DeWitt has spent 23 years in higher education, serving in roles that span admissions, housing, student activities, conduct, academic affairs, and executive leadership. His career has centered on supporting students navigating complex systems while ensuring they remain engaged and empowered. 

Deep roots at Central State 

DeWitt’s connection to Central State began when he arrived as an undergraduate in 1998. Though he initially came to campus with aspirations of playing basketball, he found his calling through music and leadership. 

A member of the Grammy-nominated Central State University Chorus, DeWitt toured nationally and internationally, including a 2001 European tour and a 1999 performance in Cairo, Egypt for the U.S. Ambassadors 4th of July celebration. 

“Central State really saved my life,” DeWitt said. “Those experiences changed how I saw myself and the world.” 

After graduating, DeWitt joined the university professionally, serving as an admissions officer from 2003 to 2005. He later returned to Central State in 2008 as hall director for Hunter Hall, before becoming director of student activities and coordinator of student life and development. During that period, DeWitt advised student leaders, including four Mr. CSU titleholders and campus organizations. He also served under the leadership of Dr. Darryl Allen Peal, then Dean of Students and a former Midwestern Regional Vice President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, of which DeWitt is a proud member. 

Impact beyond CSU 

Following his departure from Central State in 2012, DeWitt continued his student-centered work at Sinclair Community College, where he served as a conduct officer and helped rewrite the institution’s student code of conduct. 

He later co-launched the African American Male Initiative, an effort designed to improve retention, persistence, and graduation rates for Black men. Over six years, graduation rates increased from less than 3 percent to 26 percent — surpassing the national average prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“That work taught me what’s possible when institutions listen to students and respond intentionally,” DeWitt said. 

DeWitt also served as Associate Provost and Director of Academic Affairs at Wilberforce University, where he rewrote the History of Wilberforce course. He later became the Director of the Bolinga Black Cultural Resources Center at Wright State University, a historic center founded on Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. 

A full-circle return 

Now back at Central State, DeWitt views the Office of the Student Ombudsman as the next chapter of his professional career. 

“I’ve been in admissions, housing, student activities, academic affairs and the president’s office,” he said. “If something happens in an undergraduate experience, I have seen it from one of those angles. That allows me to guide students with honesty and care.” 

As an alum, administrator, and parent of a current CSU student, DeWitt believes Central State graduates carry a responsibility to remain engaged with the institution. 

“Graduating from Central State comes with a responsibility,” he said. “To know our history, to understand why this place matters, and to give back — not just in words, but in deeds.” 

Advice for the next class 

For students, DeWitt emphasizes curiosity, preparation, and civility.  

“Read your syllabus not just for the rules, but for what you’re entitled to,” he said. “Listen more. Talk less. Curiosity will take you far. 

He also urges students to fully embrace the opportunities available to them at Central State. 

“College isn’t just about earning a credential,” DeWitt said. “It is about choosing to be part of something bigger than yourself. Take advantage of that. Get involved. Learn the history. Learn the stories behind the names on the buildings. That context matters.” 

A defining moment 

Among his memories at Central State, DeWitt says the most meaningful remains walking across the stage to earn his bachelor’s degree — a milestone he once doubted he would reach. 

“That was the pivot in my life,” he said. “I am who I am because I graduated from Central State University.” 

Now, he is focused on ensuring that today’s students have the guidance and advocacy they need to reach that same moment — and beyond.