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Honoring the present; preparing for the future
Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, Ph.D., was named the 10th President of Central State University during a ceremony on Feb. 9, 2024, at the University Student Center. Kuti currently serves as vice president for Research and Economic Development and director of Land-Grant Programs.
Get ready to witness a new era of research and innovation at Central State University, as Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti takes charge as the 10th President of the University! The appointment of Kuti marks a significant milestone in the history of the Institution, as he brings with him extensive experience and a proven track record of success. With his leadership, Central State University is poised to fulfill its mission of providing quality education and opportunities to underrepresented students, taking the University to new heights of excellence!
Under Kuti's leadership, Central State has achieved significant growth in external awards and has climbed the ranks in the National Science Foundation survey. This recognition is a testament to Kuti's ability to foster a culture of research and innovation within the university. By securing funding and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, Kuti has created an environment where faculty and students can thrive.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Interim President Dr. Alex Johnson for his leadership and commitment to student access and success and advancement of Central State University.
Current Presidential leadership
Dr. Alex Johnson is serving as Interim President at Central State University. He is serving upon the departure of Dr. Jack Thomas, who did not seek a contract renewal. Thomas's last day was June 30, 2023.
With nearly 30 years of experience as a college president, Dr. Johnson is a nationally recognized educator, author, and expert in institutional transformation. Most recently, he served as president of Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C), a position he held from 2013 through 2022. There, he focused on strengthening the institution’s longstanding mission to provide high-quality, accessible, and affordable educational opportunities and services.
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Dr. Johnson has also served as president of the Community College of Allegheny County, a multi-campus college in and around Pittsburgh; chancellor of Delgado Community College in New Orleans; president of Tri-C’s Metropolitan Campus in Cleveland, and served a two-year term as president of the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges.
His books, "Change the Lapel Pin: Personalizing Leadership to Transform Organizations and Communities" (2018) and "Capturing Change: Creating Systems of Transformation Through Continuous Improvement" (2021) provide insight into how leaders can create lasting systems of transformation.
Dr. Johnson’s work on local, statewide, and national boards has focused on workforce development, and institutional innovation and accountability. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his vision and leadership in higher education.
“Dr. Johnson is a proven leader in higher education and an expert in institutional transformation,” said Board Chair Jacqueline Gamblin. “He has a passion for transformation and excellence in higher education. He’s the right person to lead us through this time of transition, and we look forward to his leadership as we search for a permanent president.”
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