Claflin University has announced the appointment of Dr. Michelle L. Mayo as its new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs following a national search conducted by TM² Executive Search. With a distinguished background in higher education leadership, academic program innovation, and student success, Dr. Mayo brings a wealth of experience to Claflin as it continues to strengthen its academic offerings and student-centered initiatives.
Dr. Mayo transitions to Claflin after serving as Associate Provost for Student Success and Dean of Undergraduate Studies at California State University – Monterey Bay (CSUMB), a Hispanic-Serving Institution recognized for its commitment to student achievement and social mobility. While at CSUMB, she led the university’s first-ever Student Success Retreat, secured a $200,000 grant through the National Institute for Student Success, and championed initiatives to enhance student retention and graduation rates.
Claflin University President Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack expressed enthusiasm about Dr. Mayo’s appointment, citing her proven track record in higher education leadership and student-centered innovation:
“Claflin University attracted a strong pool of candidates for this role, but Dr. Mayo stood out because of her diverse experiences and her commitment to advancing academic excellence. Her leadership in academic program innovation, student success, and institutional growth perfectly aligns with Claflin’s mission. I am confident she will be a transformative leader for our students, faculty, and academic programs.”
Dr. Mayo is no stranger to HBCU leadership. Before her tenure at CSUMB, she served as Associate Provost for Academic Programs and Undergraduate Research at North Carolina Central University (NCCU). While at NCCU, she led the development and approval of eight new degree programs, co-chaired a university-wide academic realignment initiative, and managed a $5 million budget for university libraries. She also played a key role in expanding high-impact learning opportunities, such as undergraduate research and experiential learning programs.
Dr. Mayo’s commitment to institutional growth and student success was further demonstrated during her time at Harris-Stowe State University, where she secured a historic $7 million National Science Foundation grant, expanded academic offerings by 75%, and developed strategic dual-degree partnerships with Washington University and St. Louis College of Pharmacy.
In her new role at Claflin, Dr. Mayo will lead the university’s academic vision, overseeing faculty development, student success initiatives, and strategic academic expansion. Her priorities include enhancing curriculum innovation, increasing retention and graduation rates, and fostering research and funding opportunities to propel Claflin’s mission forward.
Dr. Mayo expressed her excitement about joining Claflin University:
“As the new Provost of Claflin University, I am committed to cultivating an academic environment where every student thrives, faculty are empowered, and the university’s legacy of excellence and innovation continues to grow. I look forward to working alongside Claflin’s exceptional faculty, staff, and students to shape the future of this great institution.”
A proud champion of student success, Dr. Mayo holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from Indiana University and has dedicated her career to strengthening student outcomes at HBCUs and Minority-Serving Institutions.
President Warmack also commended TM² Executive Search for leading the national search process, emphasizing their expertise in identifying transformational HBCU leaders:
“TM² Executive Search has once again demonstrated their deep understanding of the unique leadership needs of HBCUs. Their network and commitment to diversity helped us identify an exceptional leader who will advance Claflin University’s academic mission.”