Talladega College has named Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough as interim president of the college, effective immediately. Dr. Kimbrough succeeds former president Dr. Gregory Vincent, who resigned from the position earlier this month. Talladega College says that Dr. Kimbrough has a wealth of experience, a distinguished academic background, and a proven track record of leadership in higher education.
“We are thrilled to have Dr. Kimbrough join Talladega College as our interim president. His extensive experience and visionary leadership are exactly what we need to navigate this period of transition and lay the groundwork for a prosperous future. Dr. Kimbrough’s commitment to serving for the next year will be pivotal in establishing stability and fostering growth across all areas of our college,” said Rica Lewis-Payton, the chairwoman of the Talladega College Board of Trustees.
Dr. Kimbrough holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia, a master’s degree from Miami University in Ohio, and a Ph.D. from Georgia State University. He held several positions in higher education, including president of Dillard University and Philander Smith College (now University). As a transformational leader, he was essential in enhancing academic programs and increasing and strengthening community partnerships.
During his 10-year tenure at Dillard University, Dr. Kimbrough made some major strides. He convinced the U.S. government to forgive a $160 million loan given to the university to help repair the damage from Hurricane Katrina, increased the endowment by over 115 percent to over $100 million, and increased alumni contributions from 4 percent to 23 percent. Which, at the time, was among the highest of all colleges and universities in the U.S., not just HBCUs.
He also implemented a film studies and physics program and reformed the college’s nursing program to become the College of Nursing. After serving as President of Dillard University for 10 years, Dr. Kimbrough returned to his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia, to take a position at Morehouse College. Dr. Kimbrough served as the interim Executive Director of Morehouse College’s Black Men’s Research Institute (BMRI).
Dr. Edward L. Hill Jr. served as acting interim president following the immediate resignation of Dr. Gregory Vincent. Rica Lewis-Payton, ’81, chairwoman of the Talladega College Board of Trustees, expressed her gratitude to Dr. Hill.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Hill for his dedication and stewardship during this transitional period for Talladega College. His leadership has been invaluable in maintaining the continuity and integrity of our institution,” Lewis-Payton said.
Talladega College is excited to see the positive impact Dr. Kimbrough will bring to the college. He begins his new position effective immediately.
The post Dr. Walter Kimbrough named interim president of Talladega College appeared first on ClutchPoints.
