Major General (Ret.) John C. Harris Jr. appointed to Central State University Board of Trustees

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has appointed Major General (Ret.) John C. Harris Jr. to the Central State University Board of Trustees.

Harris brings decades of distinguished military leadership, public service, and organizational management experience to the Board. He most recently served as Director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services following his appointment by Gov. DeWine.

Prior to that role, Harris served as Ohio’s Adjutant General from 2019 to 2025, leading the Ohio National Guard and commanding the state’s Army and Air National Guard, Military Reserve, and Naval Militia — a force of nearly 17,000 personnel.

“Major General Harris has devoted his career to leadership and service, and we are honored to welcome him to the Central State University Board of Trustees,” said Central State University President Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, Ph.D. “His experience leading complex organizations, developing people, and serving the citizens of Ohio will bring an important perspective to our Board as we continue advancing Central State’s mission and creating opportunities for our students.”

Harris has held numerous leadership positions throughout his military career and has extensive experience in strategic planning, organizational leadership, workforce development, and public service. His career reflects a longstanding commitment to strengthening organizations and the communities they serve.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am pleased to welcome Major General Harris to Central State University,” said Board Chair Jacqueline Gamblin. “His record of leadership, integrity, and service to Ohio speaks for itself. I look forward to the perspective and experience he will bring to the Board as we work together to advance the mission and continued success of Central State.”

Harris joins the Board as Central State continues to build on its momentum as Ohio’s only public Historically Black College or University and 1890 Land-Grant Institution. The University is advancing strategic priorities focused on student success, academic excellence, enrollment growth, institutional sustainability, and strengthening its impact across Ohio and beyond.

Harris will participate in his first Central State University Board of Trustees meeting on Sept. 10.

“Central State has a proud history of developing leaders who serve their communities, our state, and our nation,” Kuti said. “General Harris’ career embodies that spirit of service, and we look forward to his contributions to the University.”