Meet Paine College's new president during the 2025 Spring Convocation
AUGUSTA, G.A. (WJBF)- Paine College is starting a new semester with new leadership.
President Dr. Lester A. McCorn is the 18th president at Paine College. During the 143rd spring convocation Wednesday, he highlighted key goals he plans to accomplish.
It's also the way Dr. Lester says he plans to move forward as the new leader of Paine College.
'See you got a president on fire, you know I can't help myself, I got a bad case of 'can't help its' because I'm excited about Paine College…'
He is sharing his plans to address many concerns that may impact the college like President Trump's pause on financial aid.
'As an institution that is dependent upon federal aid we need that, and it's not just Paine College, and it's not just HBCU's– all institutions of higher learning would be affected by this,' Dr. McCorn said.
During the ceremony, students also had the chance to hear from alumni, city leaders and current staff about the direction for the college and to get excited for their future as a Lyon.
Dr. Lester also mentioned the impacts of Hurricane Helene– he says community partnership and support is vital for restoration.
'We're looking at some of the needs where some of the gaps and deficiencies are on this campus, and we probably would not have done it with as much meticulous care if it had not been for the effects of the storm. We had about $5 million dollars' worth of damage on this campus. So, it's gonna take a lot to get there– it's not gonna happen overnight, but I believe that we'll be better and stronger when it's all said and done.'
Dr. Lester is hopeful this new year, and new administration, will lead to new accomplishments and success for the future of Paine.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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