Fayetteville State University's Chuck McKinnon, associate vice chancellor for Strategic Communications, has been selected by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities for the 2026-27 Executive Leadership Academy. Following the official national announcement on June 15, he joins 36 accomplished higher education professionals from across the nation in a yearlong program designed to prepare senior administrators to guide colleges and universities through today’s rapidly evolving landscape.

“Exceptional universities are built by exceptional leaders,” said Samantha Holmes, vice chancellor and chief of staff, in a press release. “Chuck has been central to elevating FSU's message with key stakeholders and providing the University with an enhanced brand reputation across media platforms. I am confident the experience will further benefit him and our university.”

Since joining Fayetteville State in 2024, McKinnon has transformed the Office of Strategic Communication into a key partner in advancing the university’s long-term mission and priorities. Under his leadership, the university launched its first comprehensive branding campaign, Make Way, expanded visibility across regional and national media and elevated communications as a key driver for institutional success.

The American Association of State Colleges and Universities hosts the Executive Leadership Academy in partnership with the Council of Independent Colleges and the American Academic Leadership Institute. Throughout the year, participants engage in leadership coaching, skills assessments, mentoring from current and former college presidents and immersive seminars on topics such as institutional planning, governance, enrollment, financial stewardship, fundraising, public policy and organizational effectiveness.

McKinnon hopes to use this opportunity to gain a broader view of organizational leadership and institutional strategy. 

“Every major facet of university leadership, from financial stewardship to public policy, relies on strategic communication,” McKinnon said in a press release. “This opportunity is about aligning our campus messaging with those complex operational frameworks. I look forward to learning from colleagues across higher education and bringing fresh ideas back to Fayetteville State.”