ORANGEBURG, S.C. — Claflin University has named Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack as the school's new president, effective August 1, 2019. Warmack succeeds Dr. Henry N. Tisdale, who is retiring after 25 years.
"I am honored to lead one of the nation's premier Historically Black College and Universities that has a tradition of producing visionary leaders and a proven track record devoted to student success," Warmack said.
Warmack will serve as the ninth president of the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in South Carolina, which was founded in 1869.
"Dr. Warmack was unanimously chosen to lead Claflin University from a pool of highly qualified applicants," said James K. Lehman, Chair of the Board. "We believe he will continue Claflin's upward trajectory, keeping the university among the nation's leading institutions of higher education. He brings a brand of leadership that is inclusive, transparent and inspires teamwork."
Warmack has served as President of Harris-Stowe State University in Missouri for the last five years. Officials say he brings more than 20 years of progressive administrative experience in higher education at five distinct higher education institutions.
Under Warmack's leadership, Harris-Stowe State University became the fastest growing public university in the state of Missouri and has been recognized as a leader in graduating African Americans and other underrepresented groups with baccalaureate degrees. In addition, officials say Harris-Stowe witnessed a 34% increase in headcount with students representing 37 states and 17 countries. Additionally, degrees, minors, and certificate programs increased from 14 to more than 50 offered.
Prior to service as President of Harris-Stowe, Warmack served as the Senior Vice President, Administration and Student Services at Bethune-Cookman University. Prior to that appointment, he was the Associate Dean of Students at Rhodes College in Memphis, where he had oversight over Student Affairs and Administration including Judicial Affairs, Student Activities, Greek life, New Student and Parent Orientation and Multicultural Affairs. Warmack also has held positions at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, N.C., and Delta State University.
Warmack earned a Bachelor's degree in Education and Master's degree in Sociology from Delta State University. He earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a specialization in Higher Education from Union University in Jackson, Tennessee. He completed post-doctoral work in Educational Leadership at Harvard University School of Education.
Warmack is married to LaKisha Warmack and they have one daughter, Morgan.
