President Cynthia Jackson-Hammond To Leave Central State University

The Central State University (CSU) Board of Trustees announced in a statement this week that the current President Cynthia Jackson-Hammond would be leaving the university by the end of the academic year 2019 to 2020. Dr. Jackson-Hammond is on her eight year of service as CSU President.

According to the university, it was planned in connection with her contract extension in 2018.

“President Jackson-Hammond’s tenure has undoubtedly marked a period of growth and prosperity for our University and we are all eternally grateful for the course on which we have been set because of her leadership and vision. Dr. Jackson-Hammond started her tenure as president with a goal of making Central State beacon of academic excellence and a citadel for growth opportunities for our students to thrive in a campus environment where they are immersed in scholarship, increased research opportunities and the arts in preparation for future success. To that end, the Central State University Board of Trustees declares to our beloved “Madam President,” mission accomplished!,” the statement said.

A Presidential Search Advisory Committee has been formed and would be chaired by Trustee Vice Chair Rev. Larry Macon, Jr. The final candidate is expected in the first quarter of 2020.

According to the statement, there will be a “Listening Sessions” on campus on September 16 and 17, 2019 for faculty, staff, students, community representatives and alumni “to express views as to the skills, experience, character and focus that our new leader should possess.”