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Tuskegee, AL – October 26, 2020. Tuskegee University today announced that President Lily D. McNair will be on a six-month medical leave, effective October 30. In her absence Charlotte P. Morris, Ph.D., former associate dean of the university’s Brimmer College of Business and Information Science, will serve as interim president.
“We fully support Dr. McNair’s decision to take the time she needs to take care of herself,” said Norma Clayton, chair of the Tuskegee University Board of Trustees. “Her leadership is critical to our plans to continue to move the institution to greater heights. We wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to her being back with us soon.”
Clayton said the university is fortunate to have someone of Morris’ caliber to help Tuskegee stay the course during McNair’s leave. In 2010, Morris served as the institution’s interim president between the retirement of Benjamin F. Payton and the appointment of Gilbert L. Rochon, and in 2017, she was interim president between the departure of Brian L. Johnson and the appointment of Lily D. McNair.
“Not only does Dr. Morris bring experience as an institutional leader, but also a passion and personal commitment to Tuskegee’s mission,” said Clayton. “The Board is confident we will be in good hands as we continue to work together to provide our students with an outstanding educational experience.”
About Tuskegee University
Located in Tuskegee, Alabama, Tuskegee University is a private, state-related and nationally ranked land-grant institution that serves a racially, ethnically and religiously diverse student body of 3,000-plus students. The institution was founded in 1881 by Booker T. Washington and is one of the nation's historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges since 1933, Tuskegee’s academic programs — many accredited by their respective accrediting bodies — currently lead to 41 bachelor’s, 16 master’s and five doctoral degree opportunities. For more information about Tuskegee University, visit www.tuskegee.edu.
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