News
Bethune-Cookman University Announces Presidential Search Committee
From the website of Bethune-Cookman University. 
Daytona Beach, FL – Tuesday, February 25, 2025 – The Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) Board of Trustees is excited to announce the formation of the Presidential Search Committee, tasked with identifying and recommending the next President of B-CU. This distinguished committee, comprised of members representing the Board of Trustees, student body, faculty, alumni, community, and other key stakeholders, reflects the University’s commitment to excellence, transparency, and inclusive leadership in this critical selection process.
Board Chairman Joyours "Pete" Gamble expressed his enthusiasm for the committee's formation, stating, "Each of these esteemed individuals has committed their time and expertise to ensure we find a highly qualified leader who embodies the values and vision of Bethune-Cookman University. This is a transformative time for B-CU, and with this Search Committee in place, we are confident in our ability to secure the right candidate to lead our institution into the future."
B-CU Trustee John Crossman has been appointed as Chair of the Presidential Search Committee. Trustee Crossman is the founder and president of CrossMarc Services, where he and his team provide real estate investment, advisory, and brokerage services. He has served on the B-CU Board of Trustees since 2022 and brings a wealth of leadership experience to this critical role.
Trustee Crossman will be joined by the following distinguished members of the Presidential Search Committee:
- Jennifer Adams – B-CU Trustee, B-CU Alum
- Deric Feacher – City of Daytona Beach City Manager, B-CU Alum
- Garrie Harris – President of Alpha 1 Staffing, B-CU Alum
- Derek Triplett – Pastor of Hope Fellowship Church, Daytona Beach, FL
- Derek Bruce – Orlando Office Managing Shareholder, Gunster Law
- Tony Jenkins – Florida Blue CEO
- Deidre Keller – Law Professor at Stetson University College of Law
- Dr. Wayne Shepard – B-CU Professor, Faculty Representative to the BOT, B-CU Trustee
- Dr. Joyce Nki, B-CU Professor
- Greg Francis – Attorney- Partner, Osborne & Francis
- Jay Galbraith – President of BRIDG
- Wendy Roundtree – Founder and Lead Strategist of Jarel Communications, B-CU Alum
- Manikka Bowman – Founder of HarveyReed LLC, B-CU Alum
- Michael White – B-CU Student Representative
- Zykeria Sawyer – B-CU Student Representative
The committee members bring a diverse array of expertise, professional interests, and accomplishments. Each has pledged the time and dedication necessary to identify the best candidates for the next President of B-CU. Their commitment will help ensure that the University continues to build upon its legacy of academic excellence, student success, and community engagement.
The search process will be conducted with the assistance of Myers McRae, a nationally recognized executive search firm with a proven track record of identifying top-tier leadership for higher education institutions.
For updates on the Presidential Search Committee meetings and progress, please visit the B-CU website, where information will be regularly updated throughout the search process.
