David R. McGhee appointed to CMU Board of Trustees

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced the appointment of David R. McGhee of Grand Blanc to the Central Michigan University Board of Trustees.

McGhee is executive vice president and Chief Operating Officer at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, overseeing strategic initiatives, human resources, and financial activities. In his role, he leads efforts to address issues including environmental justice, educational equity and economic development in Genesee County. 

“It is both a pleasure and an honor to join in partnership with this group of dedicated leaders who are committed to the advancement of higher education,” McGhee said. “Every individual plays a role in shaping the future of higher education – and I am privileged to have the chance to play a role as a Trustee. As an alum, it is an exciting responsibility to seek the balance between the content of higher education and the context in which it exists – it is an opportunity to contribute to a future that our students, the next generation of leaders, will create.”

His previous leadership roles include chief executive officer of The Steve Fund, a philanthropic organization supporting the mental health and well-being of young People of Color; chief strategy and program officer for the Schultz Family Foundation, a nonprofit focused on social mobility and opportunity; and vice president of organizational excellence and impact at The Skillman Foundation, a Detroit-based nonprofit organization focused on strengthening K-12 education, afterschool programming, youth and community leadership, and more. 

{Photo credit: David R. McGhee}

His volunteer leadership roles include past board chair of Learn Fresh, a nonprofit that uses sports and play to engage students in STEM learning, and past president of the Board of Trustees of the Flint Public Library.

“We are thrilled that Mr. McGhee is returning to serve his alma mater as a member of the Board of Trustees,” said CMU President Neil MacKinnon. “His extensive experience in fostering inclusive communities, empowering youth and strengthening partnerships will bring tremendous value to CMU as we work toward our strategic goals and priorities. I look forward to working alongside him in the years ahead.” 

McGhee earned a Master of Science in Administration with a concentration in Leadership from CMU in 2007. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration and public policy from Oakland University, where he is an instructor in the nonprofit management certificate program.

“David’s commitment to community engagement and mentorship is very much in alignment with the mission, vision and values of Central Michigan University,” said CMU Board Chair Todd Regis. “His experience working with political, nonprofit and higher education organizations will contribute a new and valuable perspective to our Board. On behalf of my Trustee colleagues, it is a pleasure to welcome him to CMU.” 

McGhee will fill the seat previously held by Todd J. Anson, who stepped down from the Board earlier this year. He will complete Anson’s term, which ends December 31, 2026.

The CMU Board of Trustee consists of eight members appointed by Michigan’s governor under authority granted by the state constitution. The appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.