Welcome President Flavius Lilly
Building Muskingum's Future Together
President Flavius Lilly has officially begun his leadership as Muskingum University's 22nd president. Follow his journey as he connects with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners while shaping Muskingum's next chapter.
“I am deeply honored to join Muskingum University at such an important and exciting moment in its history,” said Flavius Lilly. “Muskingum’s commitment to academic excellence, access, and student-centered learning is both inspiring and deeply aligned with my own values. Students are at the heart of this University’s purpose, and I look forward to partnering with faculty, staff, alumni, and community leaders to build on Muskingum’s strong foundation. Together, we will expand opportunity, strengthen innovation, and ensure that every student is prepared to thrive and lead in a changing world.”
Throughout the search process, the Board of Trustees sought a collaborative and forward-looking leader who could build on Muskingum’s strong foundation while guiding the University into its next chapter of growth and impact. Dr. Lilly was selected for a proven ability to strengthen academic programs, support experiential and interdisciplinary learning, advance access and inclusion, and lead with clarity and integrity in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape.
“From the outset of this search, we sought a leader who embodies Muskingum’s values while boldly embracing the opportunities ahead,” said Jim Schmotter, Chair of the Presidential Search Committee. “Dr. Lilly stood out for his clarity of purpose, collaborative leadership style, and deep belief in the transformative power of a Muskingum education. He brings the experience, insight, and energy to guide the University with confidence into its next era of growth and distinction.”
“Dr. Lilly is the right leader for Muskingum at this pivotal moment in our history. Throughout this search, our community was clear that we wanted a president who would champion academic excellence, expand opportunity for students, and lead with both strategic vision and genuine connection. Dr. Lilly’s commitment to innovation, access, and collaborative leadership aligns beautifully with Muskingum’s mission and momentum. We are confident he will build on our strong foundation and help shape an even brighter future for our University.”
— Cheryl Carpenter, Board Chair
A native of southcentral Ohio, Dr. Lilly holds a PhD in Gerontology and an MA in Applied Sociology from the University of Maryland, an MPH in Epidemiology from Drexel University, and a BS in Biology from Wright State University.
Dr. Lilly would love to hear from you. "Write to me at president@muskingum.edu. Tell me what's on your mind. Tell me what matters to you."
To learn more about Dr. Lilly, please see the Presidential Frequently Asked Questions page.
Flavius R.W. Lilly, PhD, MHP
Education
- Doctor of Philosophy (PHd), Gerontology
University of Maryland Baltimore County - Master of Arts (MA), Sociology
University of Maryland Baltimore County - Master of Public Health (M.P.H.), Epidemiology
Drexel University - Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Biology/Biological Sciences, General
Wright State Univesity - Institute for Management and Leadership in Education Graduate Certificate
Harvard Graduate School of Education
Experience
- McDaniel College, Westminster, Maryland
Provost, 2023-2026 - University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland (UMB)
Vice Provost, Academic & Student Affairs, 2020-2023
Senior Associate Dean, Graduate School, 2015-2020
Assistant Vice President, Academic & Student Affairs, 2010-2020
Media
- Meet Muskingum University’s 22nd President, July 8, 2026
