The board of regents of Concordia College in Selma, Alabama, has named James E. Lyons as chief transition officer. In effect, Dr. Lyons will serve as interim president of the historically Black educational institution for the next six months.
According to the latest U.S. Department of Education statistics, Concordia College, which is affiliated with the Lutheran Church, enrolls about 500 students. African Americans make up 93 percent of the student body.
Dr. Lyons most recently served as interim president of the University of the District of Columbia. Earlier, he was president of Bowie State University, Jackson State University, and California State University Dominguez Hills. From 2007 to 2010 he was secretary of the Maryland Higher Education Commission.
Dr. Lyons holds a bachelor’s degree in Spanish, a master’s degree in student personnel, and a doctorate in higher educational administration, all from the University of Connecticut.
Great Choice!!!!!
After working with Jim when he was President of CSUDH and in fact following him since he left our Institution, I am pleased to see that higher education still recognizes his leadership qualities, especially among the HBCUs. Best of luch during the transition!
Congrats to Dr. Lyons. He and I interacted extensively when he was President of CSUDH and I wish him the best in this position at Concordia. It is nice to know that higher education recognizes his leadership.
Great, Dr. Lyons was my President at Jackson State University! #TheeILove