Jesse Cureton has been appointed as the acting president and CEO of Queens University of Charlotte. This decision comes after the resignation of former President Dan Lugo in June. The board of trustees voted unanimously to elect Cureton, who has deep ties to the institution.
Cureton holds a master’s degree in business administration from Queens. He has an impressive background, having served as the chief consumer officer at Novant Health and working at Bank of America for 25 years in various leadership roles. His experience extends to several boards, including the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance.
In his statement, Cureton expressed his pride in taking on this important role, especially as an alumnus. “Queens helped shape who I am, and I’m honored to give back during this pivotal time,” he said. He emphasized his commitment to supporting students, faculty, and staff as the university goes through this transition.
Brandon Perry will serve as the acting chair of the board of trustees. His experience includes chairing the finance and audit committee since 2017. He believes Cureton’s extensive leadership experience and dedication will help guide the university through challenges, especially in today’s rapidly evolving higher education environment.
As the search for a permanent president begins, both Cureton and Perry are focused on ensuring a smooth transition. This time in leadership could influence the future direction of Queens University, as institutions face new trends and challenges in higher education.
Many universities are adapting to shifts in student demographics and technology, and Cureton will need to navigate these changes effectively. According to a recent survey by Inside Higher Ed, 63% of college leaders believe that their institutions must rethink their student engagement strategies to stay relevant. This underscores the importance of steady and visionary leadership during such transitions.
Cureton and Perry’s leadership may also resonate with faculty and students on social media. As members of the university community share their thoughts, reactions to this new leadership can shape how the transition is perceived. Engaging effectively with these stakeholders will be vital for building trust and ensuring a shared vision for the university’s future.
As things progress, the board is committed to finding a long-term leader who will steer the university toward success. This leadership transition is not just about filling a role; it’s about maintaining momentum and ensuring that Queens University continues to thrive amidst changing tides in higher education.
For more information on the challenges facing today’s universities, you can check out resources from the American Council on Education here.
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Jesse Cureton