The Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities is pleased to announce the election of new members to its board of directors.
The board is composed of presidents and chancellors from CUMU member institutions who are committed to advancing social and economic mobility, regional economic impact, and community well-being. Board members serve a two-year term and provide leadership and vision to guide CUMU’s efforts in achieving its mission.
“CUMU welcomes our newest board members who come from institutions that are leaders in how they engage with and anchor our communities,” says past CUMU Board Chair Kristin Sobolik, chancellor, University of Missouri-St. Louis. “Educational relevancy and inclusive economic growth are central to CUMU’s mission and the strategic direction of higher education as we seek to be collaborative, relevant, and engaged community partners. I want to thank my fellow presidents and chancellors for their commitment to the CUMU mission and to helping change the world for better.”
Ellen Neufeldt elected board chair
Ellen Neufeldt, president, California State University, San Marcos
“It’s an honor to serve as chair of the CUMU board alongside such visionary leaders who understand the vital role our institutions play in our regions as engines of economic transformation. As urban and metropolitan universities, we are uniquely positioned to address the most pressing challenges facing higher education—by advancing social mobility and ensuring our students not only succeed, but thrive and contribute to the economic vitality of their communities. I look forward to working together to further elevate CUMU’s mission and impact across the nation.”
Loren Blanchard elected vice chair and treasurer
Loren J. Blanchard, president, University of Houston-Downtown
“I look forward to continuing my work with CUMU as the board’s vice chair and treasurer. As we navigate a shifting landscape in higher education, it is increasingly important that urban and metropolitan colleges and universities partner together to advance discourse, research, and public advocacy. CUMU’s partner institutions have the greatest responsibility to restore the public’s confidence in higher education. Acting on that duty is our moral imperative.”
New members-at-large, 2025–2027
Jonathan Koppell, president, Montclair State University
“As the president of a public-serving university, it’s clear that CUMU’s work is more important now than ever. Colleges and universities, when utilized properly, can serve as engines for economic mobility and common good. By bringing together and supporting universities that share this vision, CUMU is showing how educational institutions can help improve the lives of all people.”
Todd G. Lamb, president, The University of Central Oklahoma
“CUMU member universities are critical to meeting the nation’s workforce development needs. Our institutions meet students where they are, providing access to a quality, relevant higher education experience that transforms lives and communities.”
Patricia Ramsey, president, Medgar Evers College
“As president of an urban college that is deeply committed to the community, I’m honored to have been selected to serve on the board of the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities, an organization that champions the vital connection between colleges/universities and their communities. CUMU’s mission to advance social and economic mobility, regional economic impact, and community well-being through place-based strategies, perfectly aligns with my passion for higher education’s transformative power in urban settings. I look forward to collaborating with fellow leaders who understand that our institutions are not just in our communities, but are integral to the success and vitality of the communities that we serve.”
Eric F. Spina, president, University of Dayton
“As an anchor institution and a partner university, the University of Dayton views our relationship with the city of Dayton as a sacred bond. This philosophy reflects the commitment of our founders and sponsors, the Society of Mary, to building community across difference. The University’s faculty, researchers and staff work closely with local partners to foster innovation, spur economic growth, and provide students with life-changing, real-world learning experiences. Being part of the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities gives us the opportunity to connect with other institutions that share our commitment to strengthening communities and making a positive, lasting impact for all.”
Laura Rosenbury, president, Barnard College
“CUMU is an essential partner for educational institutions located in urban and metro communities. CUMU’s innovative approach to programming and advocacy ensures that member organizations are able to provide students, faculty, and staff with effective solutions for the unique challenges we are facing. I’m excited to join the board of directors to support CUMU’s mission and help create a better future for the people we serve.”
Members-at-large continuing their 2024–2026 terms
- Virginia (Ginny) Arthur, president, Metropolitan State University
- Berenecea Johnson Eanes, president, California State University, Los Angeles
- Georj Lewis, president, Clayton State University
- Joanne Li, chancellor, University of Nebraska at Omaha
- Justin Lonon, chancellor, Dallas College
- Deidra Peaslee, president, Saint Paul College
- Paul Pribbenow, president, Augsburg University (secretary)
- Peter Slee, vice chancellor, Leeds Beckett University
- Kristin Sobolik, chancellor, University of Missouri-St. Louis (recent past chair)
Re-elected member-at-large, 2025–2027
- Antonio Tillis, chancellor, Rutgers University–Camden
CEO of administrative headquarters
- Mark R. Ginsberg, president, Towson University (ex officio)