On November 12, 2012, Morehouse College Board of Trustees announced Dr. John S Wilson Jr. as the College’s 11th president.

“Dr. Wilson has the vision, experience and passion to ensure that Morehouse continues to advance its aim of producing global leaders who will continue to make a difference in the world,” said Robert C Davidson Jr., Chairman of the  board.

“His record of academic excellence and public service is exemplary of the standard we hold for Morehouse Men. The Board and I are confident that, with his leadership, we will be well-positioned to continue delivering the educational environment that prepares our students for lives of leadership and service.”

Dr. Wilson is a alum of Morehouse, ’79, and has graduate degrees from Harvard University, including his master of theology and both a master’s and a doctoral degree in administration, planning and social policy. He boast more than 25 years of experience in higher education leadership.

Previously, Wilson served as the executive director of the White House Initiative on HBCU’s and made efforts to strengthen the ability of the nation’s 105 HBCUs.

President Barrack Obama released a statement, saying, “John has a trusted voice, helping my administration follow through on our commitment to strengthen HBCU’s. I wish John the best as he takes on this important role as the president of Morehouse College and as he continues to inspire more of our nation’s youth to pursue higher education.”

Robert Franklin, Wilson’s predecessor, said, “Our institution and our students will be very well served by Dr. Wilson’s experience, focus and passion.”

Wilson will take office in late January of 2013.