Governor appoints Ervan D. Rodgers II to Central State University Board of Trustees

Central State University is proud to welcome Ervan D. Rodgers II as the newest member of its Board of Trustees, appointed by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine for a term beginning July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2031.  

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Rodgers is a nationally recognized technology executive with more than 25 years of experience spanning both the public and private sectors. Most recently serving as Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Designer Brands Inc. (DSW), Rodgers led high-impact digital transformations, including the implementation of cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, customer experience enhancements, and the development of an artificial intelligence policy to drive innovation. His work resulted in increased efficiency, cost savings, and stronger alignment with corporate strategy. 

Prior to his work at DSW, Rodgers served as the Ohio’s Chief Information Officer, where he was responsible for managing a $2 billion annual IT budget and leading a workforce of more than 2,500 personnel. He played a pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic by enabling 55,000 state employees to transition to remote work and consolidating state infrastructure to save over $100 million annually. He also chaired the technical CyberOhio subcommittee, helping to establish laws and standards for cybersecurity and data protection. 

Beyond his impressive executive experience, Rodgers is deeply committed to community and leadership development. He currently serves on the boards of National Church Residences and The Center for Healthy Families, supporting initiatives that improve quality of life for older adults and young families, respectively. He is also a fellow of the African American Leadership Academy and a coach for Handshake America, reflecting his dedication to mentorship and the next generation of leaders. 

Rodgers holds a Master of Information Strategy, Systems and Technology (MISST) from Muskingum University and a Bachelor of Arts in Management and Organizational Development from Spring Arbor University. 

His accomplishments have earned national recognition, including being named Top 10 Retail CIO by Retail Tech Insights and receiving the ORBIE CIO of the Year for Ohio Enterprise in 2023. He was also honored as a Government Technology Top 25 Doer, Dreamer, and Driver and received the Golden Gov Visionary State Executive award in 2021. 

Rodgers’s dedication to community impact and strategic growth aligns with Central State’s mission to academically prepare students with diverse backgrounds for leadership and service. Rodgers' forward-thinking leadership and technological acumen will support the University’s continued growth in research, innovation, and student success. 

Central State University President Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti welcomed the appointment, stating: 

“Mr. Rodgers brings a wealth of expertise in innovation, digital transformation, and public service that will be instrumental in shaping the future of Central State University. His strategic insight and values-driven leadership align with our commitment to student success and Institutional excellence.” 

Board of Trustees Chair Jacqueline Gamblin echoed the sentiment, adding:

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am thrilled to welcome Ervan Rodgers to Central State University. His proven leadership in both the public and private sectors, particularly in innovation and digital transformation, will bring invaluable perspective to our work. Mr. Rodgers’s commitment to service and equity aligns with Central State’s values, and I am confident he will play a vital role in guiding the University’s continued growth and impact.” 

As a new trustee, Rodgers joins a committed group of leaders who are instrumental in guiding policy, fiscal stewardship, and Institutional advancement for Ohio’s only public Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and 1890 Land-Grant Institution.  

With his breadth of experience, passion for service, and track record of innovation, Rodgers is poised to make a transformative impact on Central State University’s Board of Trustees and the entire Marauder community. 

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