According to an announcement from Coastal Carolina University, Michael Benson is set to become the 27th president of West Virginia University. This transition marks a significant milestone in his career, reflecting his dedication to higher education and leadership in academic circles.
Michael Benson: A Look at His Leadership Journey
Michael Benson, aged 59, serves as the current president of Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina, holding a concurrent position as a history professor at the institution. He assumed the presidency at CCU in 2021, during a time when the university was navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and striving to enhance its academic programs.
Michael Benson is known locally for the school’s controversial agreement with the City of Myrtle Beach in placing a CCU Theatre in what many consider a dangerous section of the city. The City agreed to fund the $30 million theatre for the school with a long-term lease. This decision sparked discussions about urban development, community safety, and the role of educational institutions in local economies.
Based on Benson’s resume on Coastal Carolina’s site, he served as the president of Snow College in Ephraim, Utah (from 2001 to 2006), Southern Utah University (from 2007 to 2013), and Eastern Kentucky University (from 2013 to 2020). His diverse experience across multiple institutions showcases his ability to adapt and lead in various educational environments, always prioritizing student success and community engagement.
In 1990, Benson completed his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Brigham Young University. He obtained a Master of Non-Profit Administration from Notre Dame in 2011, followed by a Master of Liberal Arts from Johns Hopkins in 2021. Benson also achieved a Doctor of Philosophy in Modern History from Oxford in 1995. His extensive educational background has equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective leadership in today’s complex academic landscape.
While at Coastal Carolina, Benson obtained a $10 million donation from the Conway Medical Center to back the university’s Conway Medical Center College of Health and Human Performance, established in 2022. This initiative not only enhances the university’s academic offerings but also strengthens the partnership between education and healthcare, ultimately benefiting the larger community.
Benson and his wife, Debi, have three children together. He has two children from a previous marriage. The Benson family is known for their commitment to community service and engagement with local initiatives, reflecting Michael’s dedication not just as an educator but also as a family man invested in building better communities.
Michael Benson replaces E. Gordon Gee, who will retire this summer. This transition not only marks a new chapter for Benson but also sets a fresh direction for West Virginia University as it seeks to address the evolving challenges and opportunities in higher education.
As Benson transitions to West Virginia University, he expresses gratitude for his time at Coastal Carolina University and the relationships he built there. He emphasizes the importance of community in education and the role of universities in shaping not only academic futures but also the lives of individuals and families.
With his extensive background in higher education and a deep understanding of the complexities that institutions face today, Michael Benson is well-positioned to lead West Virginia University into a new era. His leadership style, characterized by collaboration and transparency, promises to foster trust and engagement among faculty, staff, and students alike.
As he steps into this prominent role, Benson aims to build on the foundation laid by his predecessors while introducing innovative strategies to enhance student engagement, academic excellence, and community partnerships.
Local News Via - MyrtleBeachSC.com
