News Summary
Paine College in Augusta, Georgia, is undergoing significant changes under newly appointed president Lester A. McCorn. With a focus on academic excellence and operational efficiency, McCorn has made key administrative appointments, including Dr. Pamela Wilkes as provost. This leadership aims to revitalize the college while honoring its legacy of diversity and quality education. Anticipation builds as McCorn prepares to officially assume his role in January 2025, following Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones’ impactful tenure.
Exciting New Changes Shake Up Paine College
Augusta, Georgia – Change is in the air at Paine College! In just 30 days into his new role as president, Lester A. McCorn is making headlines with bold moves aimed at revitalizing this historic institution. With a vision that places a strong emphasis on academic excellence and administrative efficiency, McCorn is off to a flying start.
A Step Forward with New Appointments
One of the first steps McCorn has taken is announcing two key appointments that are sure to make waves in the higher education community. The newly appointed provost, Dr. Pamela Wilkes, brings a wealth of experience from her previous position at Coppin State University. With a strong background in academic leadership, Wilkes will oversee every aspect of academic affairs at Paine College. This includes managing curriculum development, faculty affairs, and enhancing the college’s academic standards. Her extensive experience is expected to significantly elevate the college’s academic profile.
Alongside Wilkes, Michael Meyers has been appointed as the special assistant to McCorn. With a solid foundation in administrative support, Meyers will play a key role in streamlining college operations. These appointments represent not just a change in staff but a transformative leap toward a brighter future for Paine College.
Building on a Strong Legacy
Paine College, established in 1882, has a long history of fostering diversity and inclusion while providing quality education. McCorn’s leadership aims to honor this rich heritage while embracing a spirit of innovation and progress. His vision includes academic excellence, community engagement, and institutional growth—essential ingredients for success in today’s dynamic educational landscape.
As the college prepares for a promising future, it’s important to acknowledge the strong foundation laid by previous leadership. McCorn steps into this pivotal role following the retirement of Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones, who dedicated over 30 years to the college, helping to steer it through challenges with her Transformation Plan. The transition marks a new chapter, and McCorn is clearly excited to write the next pages in Paine College’s storied history.
The Visionary at the Helm
What’s truly remarkable is McCorn’s background. Just before taking on this role, he served as the president of Clinton College, where he achieved incredible results—boasting a 27% increase in student enrollment and a 25% boost in graduation rates during his tenure. This kind of transformative leadership gives the community high hopes for Paine College’s future.
What more can we expect from McCorn? He’s known for securing over $20 million in grants during his previous presidency, and it wouldn’t be surprising if he brings that momentum to Paine College as well. He holds impressive academic credentials, including a Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary and a Master of Divinity from the prestigious Yale University School of Divinity.
A Personal Touch
Outside of his professional achievements, McCorn is also an integral part of his family. He and his wife, Charlene M. McCorn, an elementary school teacher, are proud parents of four adult children and have five grandchildren. His strong ties to the community and personal commitment to education are likely to enrich the campus environment.
Looking Ahead
As McCorn gears up to officially assume the presidency on January 1, 2025, the anticipation around Paine College is palpable. With strong leadership focused on enhancing the institution’s stature, the college community is brimming with hope and excitement for what lies ahead. Under McCorn’s guidance, it seems that Paine College is well-positioned to honor its past while enthusiastically stepping into a future filled with potential and promise.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Augusta Launches Inaugural 2025 Black History Calendar
Paine College Embraces New Era with Dr. McCorn
Augusta Launches Black History Calendar for 2025
Richmond County Honors Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones
Paine College Kicks Off New Academic Year with Heartfelt Convocation and Exciting Changes
Additional Resources
- The Augusta Press: Paine College Welcomes New Leadership Team
- Augusta Chronicle: New President Aims to Meet Market Demands
- WRDW: Paine College Hires Dr. Lester McCorn as New President
- Google Search: Paine College Lester A. McCorn
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Higher Education College
