Nonprofit Mississippi News. The search for Tougaloo College’s next president has ended. The Tougaloo College Board of Trustees had announced Dr. Carmen J. Walters as its 14th president. She is the second woman to hold the office. Walters’ appointment comes after Beverly Wade Hogan, who served 17 years as the college’s first female president, resigned. Walters was the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s executive vice president for enrollment, student success and institutional relations for six years. In a press release, Walters stated that it was a dream come true to be the president of the private, historically black college which dates back 150 years. “Tougaloo is rich in history. It’s evident when you visit the campus and take a walk around these beautiful grounds. She said it was a challenge and an opportunity to preserve this wonderful history, but also bring Tougaloo forward for another 150 years. Although the appointment was praised by boosters, there were many issues with the selection process. Unsigned letter dated February 14 was addressed to college trustees by members of the selection and a national alumni organization, Tougaloo Alumni for Accountability and Progress. It asked that the committee consider other candidates than Walters and Melva Williams from Southern University at Shreveport. The letter noted that neither candidate had any experience working at a private HBCU. This, according to the authors, is necessary in order to meet Tougaloo’s needs for special fundraising expertise. “Neither Dr. Walters or Dr. Williams have demonstrated the ability lead Tougaloo at
This critical juncture is when Tougaloo isn’t in a position for taking a chance with unproven leaders,” wrote the authors of the letter. C.J. Lawrence, a Tougaloo graduate in 2003, stated that he wasn’t involved in the writing of the letter. He is also not a member the TAPP group, but shares the concerns expressed in the letter. They did not establish a rapport, or show that they had established a relationship with potential donors and business partners. This is essential for Tougaloo’s legacy to be preserved through financial contributions. Lawrence stated that President Hogan had this in abundance. Edmond Hughes, chairman, of the Tougaloo presidential searching committee said that although they were familiar with the letter, the committee members didn’t believe it represented the majority view of stakeholders. Hughes said that he knew there was a section of the population that felt this way, and that there was also a segment of the population who believed the process would work and trusted it. Hughes said that there will always be differing opinions about who the right person is. Hughes stated that the committee was extremely confident in Dr. Walters’ qualifications and in the rigorous selection process. She has over 24 years experience in community colleges and has held many roles, including those of student affairs, budget, athletics, grant management, business, and academic. AGB Search, which specializes in executive search for higher education institutions, was consulted by the 12-member search committee to help with the presidential search. The committee included a representative from the Student Government Association, faculty members, and former and current Tougaloo board members. Hughes stated that there were 70 candidates for the position. The committee narrowed down the list to eight top candidates for the position of college president, which was established in 1871. The committee conducted off-site interviews to select two candidates for interviews on site and two open forums for students, faculty, and staff to meet them. Hughes stated that Williams and Walters interviewed alumni, faculty members, board of trustees members, students, and other interested parties. They also received feedback from all those who took part. “The board of trustees made the recommendation by the search committee and they ultimately chose the next president.” Lawrence stated that alumni desired a process that was “judicious and methodical” and that some alumni weren’t happy with the answers. Lawrence stated that it is important to conduct a thorough search and make sure that all questions are answered. “The process began in December and was completed by February. Two months is not a long time to find someone who will replace someone who has given 20 years.” Hogan, who will be retiring on June 30, stated that she was thrilled about Walters’ selection. It will be my honor to pass the baton to her. Hogan stated in a press release that she brings a unique combination of experience, commitment, and mature judgment that is useful in any leadership position. “Her knowledge and appreciation of the college’s past and mission, along with her demonstrated commitment for student success and faculty will all be a significant asset in helping the college move into its best years.” Hughes stated in a news release.