Central State University, Ohio’s Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and 1890 Land-Grant Institution has named Nigerian born, Dr. Morakinyo A. O. Kuti as the Vice President for Research and Economic Development and Director of Land Grants.
Dr. Kuti in the new role will be responsible for leading the implementation of Central State’s strategic plan and statements of purpose, goals, mission, and vision, as it relates to research, Title III Program, other sponsored activities, and Land Grant programs. The newly created VPRED role he occupies will enhance Central State’s impact on students and the community
“It is an honor to be named the vice president for Research and Economic Development and the director of Land Grant Programs. I am humbled to be a part of ushering in a new era of research and innovation at Central State University,” Kuti said.
Previously, Kuti has served as the associate provost for research; interim dean of the John W. Garland College of Engineering, Science, Technology, and Agriculture; and director of 1890 Land Grant Programs at Central State.
Kuti has secured over $20 million in public and private funds that have enhanced Central State’s physical infrastructure, enabled faculty research and scholarly activities, and provided students with scholarships and experiential learning opportunities. He has administered $225 million in public and private funds since 2005.
Kuti led a multidisciplinary team of faculty and staff that increased Central State’s external awards by 227% from $20.1 million to $50.5 million in three years and increased CSU’s ranking on the National Science Foundation survey of Higher Education of Research and Development Expenditures (HERD) from 42 to 22 in three years. Central State is the highest ranked predominantly undergraduate HBCU on the 2021 HERD Survey.
Kuti secured United States Department of Agriculture approval for CSU to construct a $16 million, 40,000-square-feet research facility expected to open fall 202
He has demonstrated a record of success facilitating positive outcomes for underrepresented students, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Over 1,700 students have been positively impacted by Kuti’s programs with 300 entering the workforce or graduate studies.
Kuti holds a Bachelor of Science in finance from Central State University, a Master of Business Administration in finance from St. Thomas University, and a doctorate in public policy and administration from Walden University.
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