Coastal Carolina University President Michael Benson will be WVU’s 27th University president, according to WVU Today. He will be appointed on…
West Virginia University (WVU) has announced that Michael Benson, the current president of Coastal Carolina University (CCU), will become the institution’s 27th president. The appointment, set to take effect in the upcoming months, marks a new chapter for WVU, bringing a dynamic leader with a proven track record of academic leadership, financial stewardship, and community engagement.
According to an official statement from WVU Today, Benson’s appointment follows a rigorous nationwide search that aimed to find a visionary leader capable of advancing the university’s mission and its aspirations for the future. Benson will succeed Gordon Gee, who has led the institution for nearly a decade.
“Michael Benson is an exceptional leader who has demonstrated remarkable success in his current role at Coastal Carolina University and throughout his career in higher education,” said Chair of the WVU Board of Governors, Patrick W. Kelly. “His vision for innovation, commitment to student success, and ability to foster strong partnerships across higher education and the broader community will serve WVU well as we continue our mission to provide world-class education and research opportunities.”
Benson’s tenure at Coastal Carolina University has been marked by significant achievements, including substantial growth in enrollment, academic program expansion, and efforts to enhance the student experience. Under his leadership, CCU saw record-breaking fundraising efforts and a focus on affordability and access for students from all backgrounds.
“I am deeply honored to join West Virginia University, an institution with a rich history of excellence in research, education, and service to the state,” Benson said. “The opportunity to build on the strong foundation laid by my predecessors and to collaborate with WVU’s talented faculty, staff, and students is an incredible privilege. Together, we will continue to elevate this great university and ensure its success for generations to come.”
Benson’s leadership is also credited with strengthening CCU’s regional and national reputation, with an emphasis on expanding its research capabilities and fostering a culture of innovation. During his time at CCU, Benson spearheaded efforts to increase the university’s research expenditures and developed partnerships with local businesses and organizations, positioning CCU as a key driver of economic and community development.
Benson’s appointment comes at a time of significant change for WVU, which has faced challenges in recent years related to state funding and changing dynamics in higher education. As a seasoned administrator with experience in managing complex institutions, Benson is expected to bring a steady hand to the helm as the university navigates these challenges and works to adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education.
WVU is one of the largest public universities in the region, with a strong commitment to research, healthcare, and community engagement. Under the leadership of President Gee, the university has seen notable successes, including the expansion of its medical school and advancements in research funding. As Benson transitions into his new role, he will be tasked with ensuring that the university builds on these successes and continues to make a positive impact on the state of West Virginia and beyond.
Benson is expected to officially take office as WVU’s 27th president in the coming months, following a formal transition process. The university community, including students, faculty, and staff, is eager to welcome him to Morgantown and to begin working together to build a strong future for West Virginia University.
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