Office of the President

Frequently Asked Questions

As we prepare for this exciting new chapter beginning July 1, 2026, we know our campus community has questions, and plenty of excitement, about what lies ahead.

Who is Dr. Flavius Lilly?

Dr. Flavius Lilly is an experienced higher education leader who grew up in rural Ohio and believes deeply in the power of education to change lives. Throughout his career, he has been committed to student success, academic excellence, and creating communities where students feel known, supported, and inspired to reach their potential. He brings a passion for education, collaboration, and meaningful connection to Muskingum University.

Known for his approachable leadership style and genuine enthusiasm for people, Dr. Lilly believes that the strongest universities are built through relationships, trust, and a spirit of teamwork and belonging.  Colleagues and students alike often describe him as warm, thoughtful, energetic, and deeply invested in the success of others.

When does Dr. Lilly officially begin as president?

Dr. Lilly officially begins his role as President of Muskingum University on July 1, 2026.

What are Dr. Lilly’s priorities for Muskingum?

While Dr. Lilly is eager to spend time listening and learning from students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members, several priorities are already clear:

• Supporting student achievement, well-being, and belonging
• Strengthening academic programs and innovation
• Honoring Muskingum’s traditions and mission
• Expanding workforce development, partnerships, and opportunities
• Building a vibrant future that honors Muskingum’s traditions while creating new opportunities for future generations 

What should we call him?

“Dr. Lilly,” “President Lilly,” and as many already know him “Flav” are all welcome depending on the setting. Around campus, don’t be surprised if conversations feel warm, approachable, and genuine. That’s exactly how he likes it.

Why did Dr. Lilly choose Muskingum?

At this point in his career, Dr. Lilly was looking for a university whose values aligned closely with his own. During the search process, he was struck by Muskingum’s strong sense of community, its commitment to students, and the warmth of the people he met. 

As someone who grew up in Ohio and believes in the transformative power of education, Muskingum felt like a place where he could make a meaningful difference while helping build on an already strong foundation. 

Will students actually get to meet the president?

Absolutely. One thing President Lilly often says is that some of the most important conversation on a university campus happen outside of formal meetings and offices. President Lilly believes the best ideas often begin with conversation. Plans are already underway for student engagement activities, coffee chats, campus walks, residence hall visits, athletic events, and open forums throughout the year. Whether you know him as “Dr. Lilly,” “President Lilly,” or simply “Flav,” he’s looking forward to being an active and visible presence across campus.

Will community members and regional partners have opportunities to connect with President Lilly?

Absolutely. President Lilly is deeply committed to building strong partnerships across the Muskingum region and beyond. Having grown up in rural Ohio himself, he understands the important role universities play in strengthening communities, creating opportunity, and serving as anchors of regional vitality. He believes universities thrive when they actively listen, collaborate, and engage with the communities they serve.

In the months ahead, there will be many opportunities for local leaders, alumni, organizations, businesses, and community members to meet President Lilly, share ideas, and explore new opportunities together. From community conversations and regional visits to campus events and listening sessions, President Lilly looks forward to learning from the people and partnerships that help make Muskingum such an important part of the region.

What about Muskingum alumni and friends of the university?

President Lilly understands that Muskingum’s strength extends far beyond campus. Alumni, donors, families, and friends of the university are an essential part of the Muskingum story, and he is excited to build relationships with the broader Muskie community.

Throughout his first year, President Lilly hopes to connect with alumni and supporters through campus events, regional gatherings, athletic events, and personal conversations. He is eager to hear stories, celebrate traditions, and learn what Muskingum has meant to generations of Muskies because he believes a university’s future is best understood through the people who have shaped its past.

Whether you graduated decades ago or recently discovered Muskingum as a supporter and friend, President Lilly wants you to know that you remain an important part of the university’s future.

What is Dr. Lilly most excited about at Muskingum?

Dr. Lilly has shared that he is especially excited to become part of the close-knit Muskingum community and experience the energy, traditions, and relationships that make the university unique.

He is especially looking forward to discovering the traditions that students and alumni hold dear, cheering on the Muskies, and spending time getting to know the people who make Muskingum feel like home. He is also excited to learn the stories that make Muskingum special. Every campus has traditions, but the people behind those traditions are what brings them to life. 

Does President Lilly have any hobbies or fun facts?

Like many in higher education, Dr. Lilly enjoys lifelong learning, connecting with people, and supporting students. He’s also known for bringing warmth, humor, and genuine conversation wherever he goes.

Outside of the university, President Lilly enjoys spending time with his family, staying active, and pursing a wide range of interests. He enjoys running, CrossFit, hiking, and finding new challenges that keep him moving and learning.

He is also an avid traveler who enjoys experiencing different cultures and perspectives.  Some of his favorite trips are visits to Barcelona, Spain, where his wife Carolina is from and where much of her family still lives.  Those experiences have deepened his appreciation for the ways culture, community, and family shape who we are. 

At home, he enjoys reading, writing, gardening, and painting.  He especially enjoys ink and watercolor painting, and each spring looks forward to planting tomatoes and watching them grow throughout the summer.

Friends and colleagues know him as someone who enjoys meaningful conversations, community engagement, and showing up for important moments. Whether that’s a campus celebration, student event, or simply a chance to connect one-on-one.

And if you see him around campus, there’s a good chance he’ll stop and say hello first.

Will there be an inauguration ceremony?

Yes! Muskingum University plans to celebrate Dr. Lilly’s inauguration with campus and community events during the academic year. Additional details will be announced in the coming weeks.

How can the campus community share ideas or feedback?

The Office of the President will provide opportunities for listening sessions, campus conversations, and community feedback throughout the year. Dr. Lilly believes strong universities are built through listening, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future.

What message does Dr. Lilly have for the Muskingum community?

“Education changed my life, and I believe deeply in the power of Muskingum to change lives for others. I am honored to join this remarkable community, and I look forward to listening, learning, and working together to build upon Muskingum’s proud tradition and shape its future.”

A New Chapter for Muskingum

Leadership transitions are meaningful moments in the life of a university. As Dr. Flavius Lilly prepares to join Muskingum University on July 1, 2026, we invite the entire campus community to extend a warm welcome and join in the excitement for the future ahead.

The future of Muskingum will be shaped by students, faculty, staff, alumni, friends, and partners working together, and President Lilly is excited to begin those conversations.