Charlotte University President to Step Down
Charlotte, NC – Queens University of Charlotte announced today that its president, Dan Lugo, will be stepping down after more than five years in office. Students and faculty were informed that Lugo plans to leave at the end of the academic year.
Transition Announcement
The announcement came through an email from Jesse Cureton, the chair of the board of trustees, who expressed both sadness and gratitude regarding Lugo’s impending departure. “While we are certainly saddened to bid farewell to Dan here in Charlotte, we also recognize that this transition is a testament to his continued growth as a leader and the national acclaim that Queens has achieved during his tenure,” Cureton wrote.
Future Opportunities
Starting July 1, Lugo will take on the role of president at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. “He brings with him a wealth of expertise and years of academic leadership that will serve Trinity well as we enter our third century,” said Lisa Bisaccia, chair of Trinity’s Board of Trustees.
Lugo’s Impact at Queens
Lugo became the 21st president of Queens University on July 1, 2019. During his time in office, he faced significant challenges, including leading the university through the Covid-19 pandemic. Under his direction, Queens added new academic programs such as undergraduate analytics, a master’s in finance and analytics, and a degree in health communication.
In addition to academic initiatives, Lugo oversaw the university’s transition to NCAA Division 1 athletics, which has elevated the school’s profile in collegiate sports. He also guided substantial renovations across campus, including updates to Barnhardt Residence Hall, McEwen Hall, the centralized steam plant, and essential roof replacements. “These strategic investments have significantly enriched the Queens experience and will preserve our unique campus for years to come,” Cureton noted.
Focus on Community and Inclusivity
Aside from enhancing academic and facility offerings, Lugo was also instrumental in launching the Charlotte Talent Initiative. This initiative aims to provide educational resources to individuals from lower-income backgrounds, showcasing his commitment to social equity and community engagement.
Search for a Successor
The university is now beginning preparations for a transition, which includes a nationwide search for Lugo’s replacement. While specific details about the search process have not yet been disclosed, university representatives are working to maintain stability during this time of change.
Conclusion
As Queens University prepares for this leadership transition, the legacy of Dan Lugo’s presidency will be remembered for its considerable contributions to the university’s growth and resilience. Students, faculty, and alumni will be watching closely as the institution moves into a new chapter.
