Dr. Kevin M. Ross was named the fifth president of Lynn University, taking office July 1, 2006. He succeeded his father, Dr. Donald E. Ross, who founded Wilmington College before serving as Lynn’s president for 35 years. Ross also previously served Lynn as the associate dean of the College of International Communication, director of special projects, director of development, vice president of institutional advancement, and chief operating officer.
During his tenure as president, the University completed a strategic plan, Lynn 2020, two years ahead of schedule and is set to launch its new vision in 2018. Under his leadership, the University has implemented a redesigned core curriculum, the nationally recognized Dialogues; a first-year student experience titled The Citizenship Project; and a three-year undergraduate degree program.
Lynn University was named among the most innovative and international colleges in the country by U.S. News & World Report and as an Apple Distinguished School for its iPad initiative, one of the most extensive tablet-based learning efforts in the country. Additionally, Lynn University has engaged in several partnerships to provide just-in-time job skills in emerging careers for students. These limitless learning programs complement Lynn’s liberal arts education with professional development opportunities in technology and social entrepreneurship.
Construction is also underway on the Christine E. Lynn University Center, and the Mary and Harold Perper Residence Hall opened for upperclassmen in fall 2017. Capital raised on university-endowed projects under Lynn 2020 exceeded $100 million. Other completed projects under the University’s strategic plan include the Keith C. and Elaine Johnson Wold Performing Arts Center, which served as the site of the third and final 2012 presidential debate; the Perper Tennis Complex; Bobby Campbell Stadium; the Mohammed Indimi International Business Center; the Snyder Sanctuary; and Remembrance Plaza, a permanent campus memorial to the four students and two faculty members lost in the 2010 Haiti earthquake.
Ross earned his A.B. in English from Colgate University and his M.A. in Liberal Arts at St. John’s College. He received his doctorate in Higher Education Leadership and Policy from Peabody College of Vanderbilt University. Ross currently serves on the Watson Advisory Board, the Millennium Campus Network Board of Directors, and the Council of Independent Colleges Board of Directors.