As the 2012 academic year comes to an end, Central State University closes the chapter of a monumental presidency. Dr. John W. Garland, a New York City native, joined the Central State administration in 1997 becoming the seventh president of this historically black university. As an alumnus of Central State’s Class of 1971, he distinguished himself in many ways, including restoring financial and operational stability. He was recognized as community leader in Ohio, and spread his efforts across the United States.
Dr. Garland served in the Marine Corps from 1962 to 1967 and after his honorable discharge, he set out to secure education for those who protect and serve the United States. Garland’s $10,000 donation to the Tom Joyner Foundation’s Veterans Education Program ranked among the largest contributions supporting the initiative. . The Veterans Education Program is dedicated to helping military veterans continue their college education, offer support in education counseling, and overall transitioning back into civilian life.
Dr. Garland led Central State University through many other efforts. He increased student enrollment, implemented new educational programs, and started several new building projects on campus He established a positive atmosphere for Central State University, the state of Ohio, and Tom Joyner’s philanthropic endeavors.