The Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) Board of Trustees has named the University’s 22nd president, Dr. Jason McConnell. McConnell has served as interim president since January 1.
"Dr. Jason McConnell's appointment as president of Lincoln Memorial University marks a pivotal moment in our institution's history,” said LMU Board Chairman Autry O.V. “Pete” DeBusk. “His unwavering dedication to academic excellence, coupled with his visionary leadership, positions LMU for continued success and growth. We are confident that under Dr. McConnell's guidance, LMU will continue to thrive as a beacon of opportunity and innovation in higher education."
McConnell joined LMU in 2001 as a member of the Information Technology department. He has advanced with ascending responsibility, a product of his visionary leadership. His ability to foster collaboration across departments, mentor emerging talent and lead transformative initiatives has been a hallmark of his tenure at LMU.
McConnell most recently served as executive vice president following his exemplary services as interim vice president for finance. Prior to that, he served as assistant vice president for finance and chief information officer, managing the University’s technology needs, use and integration. He played integral roles in the development of the LMU-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, LMU Duncan School of Law, LMU-Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine and the LMU-College of Dental Medicine by working with each of the founding deans to plan, integrate and design cutting-edge technologies to enhance teaching and learning for the professional degree programs.
"I am deeply honored to serve as the president of Lincoln Memorial University, an institution that holds a special place in my heart,” McConnell said. “I am committed to advancing LMU's mission of providing transformative educational experiences to our students and fostering a culture of excellence. Together, with the support of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni, I am excited to lead LMU into a new era of innovation and success."
McConnell holds a Doctor of Business Administration from LMU. He is a native of Rose Hill, Virginia, where he and his wife, Beth, reside with their two sons, Seth and Ross. McConnell is an accomplished pilot with a passion for exploration and adventure.
An inauguration ceremony is planned for LMU’s Homecoming in October.
LMU’s 21st president, Dr. Clayton Hess, retired at the end of 2023.
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@lmunet.edu.
