After the surprising departure of Dr. Phyllis last week, Bennett College has appointed a new president to lead the institution. In a press release, Bennett College officials announced that Suzanne Walsh will serve as new president of the historic institution starting on September 1st. Gwendolyn O’Neal, a retired UNCG Professor and Bennett alumnae who was announced as the interim president, will continue in her duties until August. She then will become Bennett’s Chief Operating Officer.
“Bennett College sought a new president to embrace and champion innovative ideas that ensure our long-term viability. We were committed to having an exceptional leader in place when our students returned for the 2019-2020 academic year,” said Dr. Gladys A. Robinson, chair of the Bennett College Board of Trustees. “Suzanne Walsh has the experience, passion, fundraising expertise and personal qualities that will ensure she is embraced by our students, faculty, staff, alumnae and community.”
Walsh has previous experience in leadership, previously working with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Lumina Foundation and the Heinz Endowments. Walsh comes into Bennett fresh off of the #StandWithBennett movement and in the middle of a legal proceeding with SACSCOC to maintain their accreditation.
