Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti and Board Chair Jacqueline Gamblin discuss Central State University's future on WCSU

Above, from left: Central State University President Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, WCSU General Manager Charles Fox, and Board of Trustees Chair Jacqueline Gamblin on a special edition of the President's Corner podcast. 

A new era for Central State University: The Investiture of Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti 

Central State University will host the historic Investiture Ceremony and Inauguration of Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti as the 10th President of Central State University on March 6. As the University prepares for this milestone, Dr. Kuti and Board of Trustees Chair Jacqueline Gamblin joined Charles Fox, General Manager of WCSU-FM Jazzy 88.9, for a special edition of the reignited President’s Corner podcast.  

The conversation offered a preview of the University’s future under President Kuti’s leadership, emphasizing academic excellence, student success, and community impact. 

A legacy of resilience and a vision for the future 

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Chair Gamblin expressed excitement about the new chapter for Central State University, noting that Dr. Kuti’s Presidency represents both a fresh start and a continuation of the University’s rich legacy. 

“This is really about a new beginning,” Gamblin shared. “As an alum of Central State, he really represents all that the University stands for in terms of resilience, excellence and success.” 

As challenges in higher education persist, Chair Gamblin emphasized the importance of strong partnerships, alumni engagement, and unwavering commitment to CSU’s mission.

“We’ve faced hard times before and know how to overcome challenges. Our alumni are our No. 1 ambassadors and advocates — sharing their impact stories, supporting students, and representing Central State in their communities.” 

Building a Destination Learning Environment 

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A five-year strategic plan will prioritize collaboration among faculty, students, staff, and stakeholders to ensure sustainable growth and student-centered innovation. 

“This is not my vision alone — it has to be a collective vision,” Dr. Kuti explained. “We are in the process of creating a strategic plan with input from all stakeholders. It must be based on reality, with evidence-based choices that align with student interests, industry needs, faculty expertise, and our University’s mission.” 

A key initiative of his presidency is transforming Central State University into a Destination Learning Environment, ensuring that the Institution’s physical and technological infrastructure supports academic success, groundbreaking research, and student well-being. 

“Where you live and learn shapes what you can achieve,” Dr. Kuti reflected. “Central State University will be a place where people thrive.” 

Join us for the Investiture Ceremony 

The March 6 Investiture of President Kuti will be a historic event honoring Central State’s continued legacy of academic excellence, research, and community engagement. As CSU embarks on this exciting new chapter, the University’s best days lie ahead. 

Together, we will build a stronger, more innovative Central State University. 

For the full conversation with Dr. Kuti and Chair Gamblin, listen to President’s Corner on WCSU-FM Jazzy 88.9.