Inauguration of Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, 10th President

Welcome to the historic inauguration of Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, the 10th President of Central State University! Join us from Monday, March 3, to Friday, March 7, 2025, for a five-day celebration steeped in tradition, community, and the vibrant cultural heritage of Nigeria, Dr. Kuti’s home country. This week of events will honor our new President and Central State’s continued legacy of academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and meaningful community engagement, making Central State a destination among institutions of higher education.

Inauguration partnership opportunities

This inauguration marks the beginning of a new era for Central State University. We invite you to join us in this celebration, engage in meaningful conversations about the future, and contribute to the success of our students and programs.

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Celebrate vision and unity

Dr. Kuti's inauguration is more than a ceremony — it's the start of an exciting new chapter for Central State University. From his roots as a proud alumnus to his distinguished career, Dr. Kuti embodies our mission of transforming lives through education. His vision for the future focuses on expanding academic opportunities, embracing innovation, and enhancing our global impact.

This week-long event is designed to engage every facet of our community — from students and alumni to faculty, staff, and local partners — while honoring the spirit of Nigeria through art, culture, and tradition.

Meet President Kuti

Inauguration schedule of events

Download the schedule to add to your calendar program, e.g., Outlook, Google Calendar.

Download a PDF of the schedule.

Monday, March 3, 2025 — Ecumenical Service

Begin the week with an Ecumenical Service of reflection and unity, where we’ll come together in fellowship and gratitude.

Ecumenical Service | 10:00 a.m.
Paul Robeson Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Auditorium

Tuesday, March 4, 2025 — 138th Charter Day

Celebrate Central State’s rich history and achievements on our 138th Charter Day. This day marks the foundation of our University and sets the stage for future generations of Marauders to excel.

Charter Day Celebration | 10:00 a.m.
Paul Robeson Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Auditorium

Wednesday, March 5, 2025 — Central State University Community Service Day

Our commitment to community engagement shines on CSU Community Service Day, where students will lead projects that uplift the communities surrounding Central State. Witness firsthand how our students are shaping the future through service and leadership.

Thursday, March 6, 2025 — Scholarship Luncheon | Investiture

An elegant Scholarship Luncheon will be held on Thursday, followed by the highlight of the week, Dr. Kuti’s Investiture Ceremony. These signature events are a celebration of leadership, vision, and our collective commitment to student success. The luncheon will raise funds to support scholarships that empower the next generation of leaders.

Scholarship Luncheon | Noon
Norman E. Ward Sr. Center, Ballroom

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Investiture Ceremony | 2:00 p.m.
Paul Robeson Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Auditorium

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Friday, March 7, 2025 — A Night of International Celebration

Conclude the week with A Night of International Celebration showcasing Nigerian culture and the global reach of Central State University. This event will feature international music, cuisine, and performances, highlighting the diversity and inclusivity that define our campus community.

A Night of International Celebration | 5:30 p.m.
Norman E. Ward Sr. Center, Ballroom

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Hotel accommodations

For guests attending the President's Inauguration, we’ve compiled a list of hotel options in the Wilberforce area to make it easier to find accommodation. These are suggestions to help you explore your choices, especially if you’re new to the area.

Photo Gallery

10th Central State University President Dr. Morakinyo AO Kuti

President Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, Ph.D., 10th President, Central State University

Dr. Morakinyo Kuti

Among his several roles, President Kuti (left) previously worked on the staff in the Budget Office at Central State. He is pictured with Gorgui Ndao, the current director of Student Success and Experiential Learning in Research and Economic Development and the 1890 Land-Grant Programs. Most recently, Dr. Kuti served as the vice president of Research and Economic Development and director of 1890 Land-Grant Programs.

Dr. Morakinyo Kuti

Dr. Kuti with his wife, Bridget Archie-Kuti, and son, Akintoye, a 2024 graduate of CSU.

2024 Commencement

After Dr. Kuti was announced as the University's next President, he had the honor of bestowing diplomas to the class of 2024, which included his son, Akintoye.

Morakinyo A.O. Kuti with a maroon and gold striped tie using broadcast equipment for a podcast

Dr. Kuti participates in the Land-Grant Communications Research Connection podcast.

2024 mister C.S.U. aisayah eze akens and miss C.S.U. breanne lovelace with president kuti and his wife

President Kuti and his wife, Bridget Archie-Kuti, with 2024-25 Mister CSU Aisayah Eze Akens and Miss CSU Breanne Lovelace.

mister and miss freshman, president morakinyo kuti, cincinnati mayor aftab pureval and doctor ryan griffin

Central State University Mister Freshmen Douglas Woodall, Miss Freshmen Za'kiya Thomas, President Kuti, Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, and CSU Vice Provost of Engagement & Persistence and Dean of Student Development Dr. Ryan Griffin.

Dr. Kuti and Joyce Beatty

United States Rep. Joyce Beatty, '72, with Dr. Kuti at the 2024 National Alumni Association Annual Alumni and Friends Scholarship Breakfast during Homecoming.

Homecoming Parade

Dr. Kuti and his wife, Bridget, wave to the crowd on a Homecoming parade float with Central State University Foundation Board members.

President Kuti speaks with Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (right), a valued friend of Central State University.

Dr. Morakinyo Kuti

Director of Alumni Relations Keith Perkins, '82, with Dr. Kuti.

Dr. Morakinyo Kuti

Dr. Kuti speaks with a student following a CSU Board of Trustees press conference, in which members announced the selection of Dr. Kuti as President to resounding applause and a standing ovation.

a large group of people stands in front of a central state university backdrop with president dr. morakinyo kuti and keybank representatives holding a large check

In September, representatives of KeyBank presented a $480,000 check to Central State University to launch the KeyBank Scholars (KBS) Program.

Dr. Kuti with students at a Sunday dinner

Dr. Kuti joins students and staff at a special Sunday dinner.

Dr. Kuti

President Kuti (right) with Mark Rendleman, a program leader in 1890 Land-Grant Programs.

president kuti on the football field at homecoming while students hold large ceremonial checks from duke energy

President Kuti on the football field at Homecoming with student leaders holding a banner and a large ceremonial check from corporate partner Duke Energy.

Dr. Kuti with students