News Summary
Clinton College has appointed Dr. Pamela Richardson Wilks as its 14th president, set to begin her term on June 1, 2025. With over 25 years of experience in higher education, particularly in HBCUs, Dr. Wilks aims to enhance access and student success at Clinton College. She succeeds Dr. Lester McCorn, who led the college for nearly eight years. The transition is expected to bring a new direction for the college as it builds on its rich legacy as an educational institution.
Rock Hill
Clinton College has officially appointed Dr. Pamela Richardson Wilks as its 14th president, marking a significant transition for the institution. Dr. Wilks will begin her position on June 1, 2025, succeeding Dr. Lester McCorn, who has led the college for nearly eight years. The announcement was made during a convening of the Higher Education Leadership Foundation at Claflin University, where Dr. Wilks received a warm welcome from attendees.
Dr. Wilks brings over 25 years of experience in higher education, primarily within the realm of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Her prior roles included serving as Provost and Executive Vice President at Paine College, as well as senior positions at Wilberforce University, Edward Waters University, and Coppin State University. The Board of Trustees expressed confidence in her credentials and vision, anticipating positive developments for Clinton College under her leadership.
In her new role, Dr. Wilks has outlined her commitment to work closely with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the Rock Hill community. Her primary goals include enhancing access to education, boosting student success, and ensuring a compelling future for Clinton College. She has emphasized the college’s rich legacy, which is founded in faith, resilience, and opportunity.
Transition from Previous Leadership
Dr. Lester McCorn, who will transition to the presidency of Paine College starting January 1, 2025, has had a substantial impact on Clinton College’s growth. Under his leadership, the college has launched five new bachelor’s degree programs and introduced a new digital library, contributing significantly to the institution’s academic offerings and resources. The Board of Trustees, particularly Chair Bishop Eric Leake, expressed gratitude for McCorn’s dedication to academic innovation and his commitment to student success.
As the college undergoes this leadership transition, Archinya Ingram has been appointed as the interim president. Ingram, who has been part of Clinton College for two decades as the Senior Vice President for Business Services and CFO, aims to ensure continuity and focus during this period of change. The process to find Dr. Wilks’ successor is anticipated to take four to six months.
About Clinton College
Founded in 1894, Clinton College is affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church and currently serves approximately 150 students. The college offers a range of degrees, including programs in nursing, cybersecurity, business management, and religious studies. Dr. Wilks’ appointment comes at a time when the college is poised for further growth and development.
With her extensive background in academia and leadership in HBCUs, Dr. Wilks is expected to bring a fresh perspective to Clinton College, ultimately aiming to fulfill the institution’s mission of providing access to education and opportunities for its diverse student body. As she prepares to assume her role in 2025, the community looks forward to her contributions and the direction she will take the college in the coming years.
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Additional Resources
- Diverse Education: Clinton College Appoints Dr. Pamela Richardson Wilks as 14th President
- Herald: Clinton College Transition Leadership
- WBTV: Changing the Guard at Clinton College
- Augusta Chronicle: Paine College Selects New President
- Google Search: Clinton College HBCUs
