Introducing the University of Lynchburg's 12th President

Dr. Sally Coleman Selden

A New Chapter for the University of Lynchburg

The University of Lynchburg Board of Trustees has unanimously approved the appointment of Dr. Sally Coleman Selden as the university’s 12th president, effective July 1, 2026. Dr. Selden, currently the Provost and Dean of The Citadel, succeeds President Alison Morrison-Shetlar following her retirement.

A seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Selden brings a distinguished track record in strategic planning, fundraising, and enrollment growth to her new role. Her return to Lynchburg marks a homecoming for a leader dedicated to academic excellence and institutional vision.

Sally Selden, PhD

12th President (elect), University of Lynchburg
Current Provost and Chief Academic Officer at The Citadel

Education
Ph.D., University of Georgia
M.A.P.A., University of Virginia
B.A., University of Virginia

Leadership roles at the University of Lynchburg (2001-2019)

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Associate Provost

Director of the MBA and Nonprofit Leadership Studies programs

Department Chair of Management

"The University of Lynchburg holds a special place in my heart, and I am honored to return as its next President. I believe deeply in the power of this community – its people, its values, and its mission – and I am excited to work together to support our students, invest in our faculty and staff, and build momentum for the University’s next chapter." -Dr. Sally Selden

Dr. Selden's work at The Citadel

Provost and Dean of the College

As the Chief Academic Officer of The Citadel, Dr. Sally Selden has spearheaded the college’s strategic vision and academic excellence. She oversees five schools, supporting over 3,800 students and 200 faculty members, while also chairing the Fiscal Review Board to ensure robust institutional health across departments, from enrollment and IT to student services and research.

Strategic Growth & Institutional Success

Dr. Selden’s tenure has been defined by record-breaking growth and a commitment to student achievement:

Fundraising Power: In partnership with The Citadel Foundation, she helped secure a $300 million campaign to fuel the Mighty Citadel 2026 strategic plan. Under her leadership, sponsored funding skyrocketed by 346%, with over $10 million raised in 2025 alone.
Enrollment Excellence: Since 2022, The Citadel has recruited the four largest classes in its history. Residential undergraduate enrollment has grown by nearly 9%, contributing to consecutive years of record-breaking overall enrollment.
Student Outcomes: Her focus on the student experience has yielded an 88% retention rate and a 78% four-year graduation rate—the highest among South Carolina’s comprehensive public colleges.

Distinguished Leadership & Scholarship

Under Dr. Selden’s guidance, U.S. News & World Report named The Citadel the #1 Regional University in the South for both 2025 and 2026.

Beyond her administrative impact, Dr. Selden is an accomplished scholar and educator. She has published extensively on leadership studies, human resources, and nonprofit management, continuing to influence the next generation of leaders through both her research and her classroom teaching.

Kelli Rainey, '99, Vice-chair, Presidential Search Committee & Board of Trustees Member

Learn more about the presidential search search process.

Julie Doyle, Chair, Presidential Search Committee & Chair, Board of Trustees

Join our Board of Trustees in welcoming Dr. Sally Selden.

Kathryn Whitestone Goodman, '13

President, Alumni Board of Directors

"Having served on the presidential search committee, I couldn’t be more excited to welcome Dr. Selden as our next president! Her genuine love for this university and the years she’s already devoted to it make her the perfect person to lead us forward. As president of the Alumni Board of Directors, I’m especially excited about her vision for creatively engaging alumni and strengthening the lifelong connection between our graduates and the University."

Page updated

Report abuse