By Alissa Paolella, Communications Manager
On March 6, Central State University stepped boldly into a new chapter with the inauguration of its 10th President, Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti.
The ceremony was a vibrant celebration filled with enthusiasm, highlighting the rich history of Central State, its unwavering dedication to academic excellence, and the bright future that awaits under Dr. Kuti’s visionary leadership. Excitement filled the air as the University community came together to embrace this momentous occasion and the possibilities that lie ahead.
Dr. Kuti’s connection to Ohio’s only public Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and 1890 Land-Grant Institution dates to 1982, when he arrived on campus as an international student from Nigeria. His journey, as recounted by Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Amy Hobbs Harris in her introduction, was shaped by the relationships he built with faculty who saw his potential and guided him along his path. “One of my favorite stories is about his professor who always kept packets of snacks in her office,” Hobbs Harris shared. “He went for the snacks but stayed for the conversation. And it was through those conversations that he built a relationship that changed the course of his life.”
This emphasis on personal connections and mentorship is a hallmark of Dr. Kuti’s leadership style. As Hobbs Harris noted, “Watching Dr. Kuti’s impressive curiosity, his care for others, and his commitment to this Institution is truly inspiring.”
In his address, President Kuti laid out a bold vision for Central State, centered on transforming the University into a “Destination Learning Environment” — a place where students, faculty, and staff thrive in an environment that fosters success, innovation, and integrity.
Dr. Kuti reflected on the University’s motto, “Veritas et Lux” (Truth and Light) and “Recta et Honor” (Straight and Honor), emphasizing that these values will serve as guiding principles in his leadership. “Truth requires us to pursue academic knowledge, while light brings clarity. Together, they illuminate the path to success,” he said.
He also underscored CSU’s strategic importance as one of only four public 1890 Land-Grant Universities in the Midwest, serving a region with a population of 76 million people. While Central State welcomes students from across the U.S. and 15 foreign countries, Dr. Kuti emphasized that strengthening recruitment in Ohio and surrounding states is essential for the University’s growth.
To enhance academic excellence, Dr. Kuti announced a comprehensive academic program review to ensure the University’s offerings align with student interests, regional workforce needs, and financial sustainability. He highlighted plans to launch CSU’s Allied Health programs, introducing stackable credentials and certificates that will prepare students for immediate employment in healthcare fields while they pursue their degrees.
Additionally, the Institution is adapting to the evolving job market by integrating artificial intelligence literacy and digital skills training into the general education curriculum, ensuring graduates are prepared for careers in emerging industries.
Beyond academics, President Kuti emphasized strengthening student engagement and leadership opportunities. This includes revitalizing Greek life — aiming to bring all nine Divine Nine organizations to campus within 18 months — and expanding student organizations, which now number 70. “The more connections students have to campus, the more likely they are to succeed,” he said.
As a Land-Grant and Research University, CSU is committed to expanding its research capacity. Dr. Kuti announced the establishment of master’s programs in Humanities and Agricultural Sciences in 2026, with additional programs in Engineering Management and Computer Science to follow.
The University’s faculty are already making significant strides in research. He highlighted the work of Dr. Sakthi Kumaran, who is using advanced technology such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to improve agricultural productivity. CSU’s Research and Demonstration Complex is also leading initiatives in bee genetics, specialty crops, and environmental stewardship.
In recognition of Central State’s growing research impact, the University was recently designated as a Research College and University in the 2025 Carnegie Classifications — a milestone that underscores its expanding influence in the academic and scientific communities.
Financial sustainability and operational excellence
President Kuti reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the University’s financial stability through prudent resource allocation and strategic growth initiatives. He expressed gratitude to Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Mike Duffey, and state education partners for their steadfast support in advancing Central State’s mission.
A key component of his administration’s approach is the Marauder Ethos, a University-wide commitment to excellence in customer service, engagement, and continuous improvement. This initiative aims to ensure that every interaction within the CSU community is guided by three core principles:
- Respectful engagement: Treating every individual with dignity and professionalism.
- Responsiveness: Addressing needs efficiently and effectively.
- Continuous improvement: Striving for excellence in all aspects of University operations.