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Tougaloo College Names Dr. Corey Wiggins as New President

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. ege-names-dr-corey-wiggins-as-new-president.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, March 14th 2026 at 16:32 GMT by The Clarion-Ledger
      Locales: Mississippi, UNITED STATES

Tougaloo, MS - March 14th, 2026 - Tougaloo College, a beacon of historically Black higher education in Mississippi, is poised for a new chapter with the incoming presidency of Dr. Corey Wiggins. Announced yesterday, Wiggins will officially assume the role on March 17th, 2026, succeeding Dr. Beverly Hogan, who served the college with distinction for 16 years. The appointment culminates a comprehensive national search undertaken by the Tougaloo College Board of Trustees, signaling a strategic move to build upon the college's rich legacy and ambitious future.

Dr. Wiggins arrives at Tougaloo with a robust background in higher education leadership, currently serving as President of Central State University in Ohio. His career trajectory demonstrates a consistent commitment to institutional growth and student success, having previously held key leadership positions at Albany State University in Georgia and Tennessee State University. Born and raised in Petersburg, Virginia, Wiggins brings a unique perspective shaped by both personal experience and professional expertise.

A Proven Leader with a Focus on Student Outcomes

Throughout his tenure at Central State, Wiggins has been lauded for his proactive approach to fostering a vibrant campus community and enhancing academic programs. Sources close to the university note a marked increase in student retention rates under his leadership, attributable to initiatives focusing on personalized support services and experiential learning opportunities. He spearheaded a university-wide campaign to bolster STEM education, attracting significant grant funding and partnerships with regional industries. This dedication to cultivating a pipeline of skilled professionals aligns perfectly with Tougaloo College's long-standing commitment to preparing students for impactful careers.

"We are excited to welcome Dr. Wiggins to Tougaloo College," stated Renee Lee Jackson, Chairwoman of the Tougaloo College Board of Trustees. "He brings a wealth of experience and a proven record of success in higher education leadership. We are confident that he will lead Tougaloo College to new heights." Jackson emphasized the Board's thorough vetting process, highlighting Wiggins's vision for the future of HBCUs and his ability to navigate the evolving landscape of higher education.

Wiggins's leadership isn't solely academic; he's also highly regarded as a skilled fundraiser. At Central State, he oversaw a successful capital campaign that exceeded its initial goal, enabling substantial investments in campus infrastructure and student scholarships. This experience will be crucial for Tougaloo, as the college embarks on its own fundraising endeavors to support its strategic initiatives.

Continuing a Legacy of Social Justice

Tougaloo College has historically been at the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement, a tradition deeply woven into its institutional fabric. Founded in 1869 by the American Missionary Association, the college has consistently championed social justice and provided educational opportunities for African American students when access was severely limited. Dr. Wiggins understands and embraces this vital history.

"Dr. Wiggins shares our commitment to social justice and our vision for a college that prepares students to be leaders and change agents in their communities and the world," Jackson added. His previous work at other HBCUs demonstrates a consistent dedication to fostering dialogue around issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Wiggins is expected to continue strengthening Tougaloo's commitment to civic engagement and service learning, empowering students to address pressing social challenges.

Looking Ahead: A Collaborative Approach

The transition period promises to be seamless, with Dr. Hogan fully committed to assisting Dr. Wiggins in assuming his responsibilities. This handover is critical to ensuring the continuity of ongoing projects and maintaining the momentum of positive change. Wiggins has already expressed his eagerness to collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and the wider Tougaloo community to develop a shared vision for the future. He plans to host a series of town hall meetings in the coming months to gather input and foster a sense of collective ownership in the college's strategic direction.

Sources indicate that Wiggins intends to prioritize strengthening Tougaloo's connections with local and national organizations, expanding internship opportunities for students, and enhancing the college's profile as a center for scholarship and research. He also plans to explore innovative approaches to online learning and program development, ensuring that Tougaloo College remains competitive and relevant in the 21st century. Ultimately, Dr. Corey Wiggins's appointment signals a period of continued growth, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the core values that have defined Tougaloo College for over 150 years.