Jesse Cureton has stepped in as the acting president and CEO of Queens University of Charlotte. He takes over after the departure of Daniel G. Lugo, who served as the university’s president until June.
Cureton is not new to Queens; he’s a proud graduate and has been involved with the school as chair of the Board of Trustees. His appointment came after a unanimous board vote, highlighting the trust and confidence the board has in him.
Trustee Watts Hamrick expressed gratitude for Cureton stepping up during this transitional phase. “His deep connection to the university and strong leadership skills are vital as we search for our next permanent president,” Hamrick said. However, he noted that finding a long-term leader may be tricky due to the shifting landscape of higher education.
Cureton will serve on the board in an ex officio manner while Brandon Perry, who has been on the board since 2017, takes on the role of acting chair.
Cureton’s background is impressive. He previously worked at Novant Health as chief consumer officer and executive vice president, where he led rebranding efforts and oversaw various business operations. He also spent 25 years at Bank of America and has served on boards for UNC Chapel Hill and the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance.
In his new role, Cureton aims to keep the university’s momentum going by focusing on supporting students, faculty, and staff. He’ll also oversee financial management and strive for academic excellence.
“Queens has played a significant role in my life and development,” Cureton shared. “I’m honored to contribute during such a crucial period for the university.”
Interestingly, as universities face challenges like enrollment declines and financial pressures, leadership changes can have a significant impact. According to a recent survey by the American Council on Education, nearly 40% of college and university presidents reported feeling unprepared for the complexities of today’s educational landscape. This makes Cureton’s extensive experience particularly valuable for Queens as it navigates these challenges.
As the university embarks on this search for a new president, Cureton’s legacy and commitment will play a vital role in guiding its future.
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