Central State University’s Dr. Ryan Griffin selected for prestigious Inspire Leadership Institute

Above, right: Ryan L. Griffin Sr., Ed.D., stands with the 2024-25 Central State University Royal Court and Kevicia Brown (left), Director, Intercollegiate Athletics.

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Ryan L. Griffin Sr., Ed.D., Vice Provost for Engagement and Persistence and Dean of Student Development at Central State University, has been selected to participate in the highly esteemed Inspire Leadership Institute, hosted by the Higher Education Leadership Foundation (HELF). This program, designed to prepare future leaders in higher education, emphasizes innovation, career development and strategies for navigating the challenges facing Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). 

Dr. Griffin’s selection for this program reflects his extensive experience and unwavering commitment to student success.  

“This is a transformative opportunity,” he said. “The Inspire Leadership Institute will provide tools and insights that will help me lead more effectively, uphold Central State’s mission and enhance the student experience.” 

Advancing student success at Central State 

Dr. Griffin’s leadership journey at CSU began as senior associate director of Retention and Academic Services, where he and the retention team helped increase the University’s retention rate by 10%. This achievement is emblematic of his holistic approach to education, focusing on both retention — ensuring first-year students return for their second year — and persistence, which ensures students continue semester to semester until graduation. 

“Student success has always been my passion,” Dr. Griffin said. “Whether working in Athletics, Academic Affairs or Student Affairs, I’ve always focused on creating pathways for students to persist and thrive.”  

Now, as vice provost and dean of student development, he channels his energy into shaping an environment that fosters graduation and lifelong achievement. 

Reinvigorating campus culture 

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Dr. Griffin has also played a pivotal role in revitalizing Greek life and student organizations at Central State. With a renewed focus on engagement and belonging, seven of the Divine 9 Greek organizations are set to be active this spring — a significant milestone for the University. 

“These organizations bring energy and leadership to the campus community,” Dr. Griffin said. “Data shows students involved in Greek life are more likely to persist, graduate and return as engaged alumni.”  

He also emphasized the broader impact of student engagement through initiatives like the Sense of Belonging program, which amplifies student voices and fosters collaboration between students and the administration. 

“Students are not only our biggest cheerleaders and critics but also our best teachers,” Dr. Griffin noted. 

“Listening to them helps us build a better HBCU experience.” 

Preparing for leadership excellence 

The Inspire Leadership Institute is a cornerstone program of HELF, aimed at equipping emerging leaders with the tools to address critical issues in higher education. Participants engage in a cohort model, working closely with current HBCU presidents and seasoned administrators to explore case studies, best practices and strategies for innovative leadership. 

“Dr. Griffin’s selection for the Inspire Leadership Institute is a testament to his visionary approach to student success and his dedication to Central State’s mission,” said Dr. Amy Hobbs Harris, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at CSU. “His innovative leadership and commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and persistence will undoubtedly be enhanced by this prestigious program, benefiting not only our students but the entire CSU community.” 

Trudie Kibbe Reed, Ed.D, was the fifth president of Griffin’s alma mater, Bethune-Cookman University and a mentor. She recalled his outstanding leadership in college. 

“Always wise beyond his years, Ryan was destined for greatness,” she said. 

“He demonstrated a unique ability to facilitate dialogue and a commitment toward resolving critical issues facing the campus, the nation and the world."

“As an undergraduate student, Ryan had a sense of purpose beyond merely achieving an academic degree. You only had to meet him once to see his ‘heart’ for other people. He had great compassion for others, while always showing humility and kindness. ... Always with a warm smile, a handshake, and a sense of purpose, Ryan had a way of instilling pride and hope in others through difficult and challenging times. ... He is indeed the prodigy of our founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune.” 

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In addition to the Inspire Leadership Institute, Dr. Griffin is set to participate in a second leadership opportunity, further solidifying his role as a key figure in higher education leadership. 

“The opportunity to learn directly from HBCU presidents, some of whom have been leading for over 15 years, is invaluable,” Dr. Griffin said. “We’re facing a post-pandemic shift in higher education, and I’m eager to bring back insights that will help Central State thrive.” 

Driving innovation and empowerment 

For Dr. Griffin, innovative leadership means embracing change and learning from students. “Innovation is about thinking outside the box. Even if a new idea doesn’t work, it’s still progress because it challenges us to grow,” he explained. 

Dr. Griffin also views his participation in the Inspire Leadership Institute as a step toward his ultimate goal of leading an HBCU. 

“This experience will empower me as a leader and equip me to better serve my team and our students.” 

A vision for emerging leaders 

The CSU leader offers this advice to future leaders in higher education: “Be bold and open to trying something new. Growth happens when we step outside our comfort zones. And always, always be willing to learn — from mentors, colleagues and especially students.” 

Dr. Griffin’s participation in the Inspire Leadership Institute underscores his dedication to advancing Central State University and his personal mission to empower students.  

“It’s an honor to serve at Central State,” he said. “Our students’ success is our greatest achievement, and I’m grateful for this opportunity to continue growing as a leader for them.”