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New Coastal Carolina president aims to focus on student success, growth

New Coastal Carolina President Sets Sights on Elevating Student Success and Institutional Growth

CONWAY, S.C. – In a pivotal moment for Coastal Carolina University (CCU), the institution's newly appointed president has outlined an ambitious vision centered on bolstering student success and driving sustainable growth. Dr. Elena Ramirez, who officially took the helm on July 1, 2025, brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles in higher education administration, and she is wasting no time in articulating her priorities for the Chanticleers' future.

Ramirez, a seasoned educator with a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Texas, previously served as provost at a mid-sized public university in the Southwest, where she spearheaded initiatives that increased graduation rates by 15% over five years. Her appointment at CCU comes at a time when the university, located in the heart of South Carolina's Grand Strand region, is navigating the challenges of post-pandemic recovery, fluctuating enrollment trends, and the evolving demands of the job market. With a student body of approximately 10,500 undergraduates and graduates, CCU has long been known for its strong programs in marine science, business, and the arts, but Ramirez sees untapped potential for expansion and innovation.

In an exclusive interview with WMBF News, Ramirez emphasized that student success will be the cornerstone of her administration. "Our students are the lifeblood of this university," she said. "My goal is to ensure that every Chanticleer not only graduates but thrives in their chosen field. This means investing in personalized advising, mental health resources, and experiential learning opportunities that bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application." Ramirez's focus on student outcomes is particularly timely, as national data from the U.S. Department of Education indicates that retention rates at regional universities like CCU have dipped in recent years due to economic pressures and the rise of online education alternatives.

To achieve these goals, Ramirez plans to launch several key initiatives in her first year. One flagship program is the "Chanticleer Success Network," a comprehensive support system that integrates academic advising with career counseling and peer mentoring. Drawing from successful models at institutions like Arizona State University, this network will use data analytics to identify at-risk students early and provide targeted interventions. "We're not just about getting students in the door; we're about guiding them to the finish line and beyond," Ramirez explained. She also highlighted the importance of affordability, pledging to expand scholarship opportunities and work with state legislators to advocate for increased funding for public higher education in South Carolina.

Growth is another pillar of Ramirez's vision, encompassing both physical expansion and programmatic development. CCU has seen steady enrollment increases over the past decade, but Ramirez aims to accelerate this trajectory by enhancing the university's appeal to out-of-state and international students. "The Grand Strand is a gem – with its beaches, tourism economy, and proximity to major cities like Myrtle Beach and Charleston," she noted. "We can leverage this location to build partnerships with local industries, particularly in hospitality, environmental science, and technology." Plans are already underway for a new STEM building, funded in part by a $20 million state grant, which will house advanced labs for marine biology and cybersecurity programs. This facility is expected to open in 2027 and could attract research grants from federal agencies like the National Science Foundation.

Faculty and staff at CCU have responded positively to Ramirez's arrival. Dr. Marcus Thompson, chair of the biology department, praised her student-centered approach. "In my 20 years here, I've seen presidents come and go, but Dr. Ramirez's emphasis on integrating research with undergraduate education is refreshing," he said. "It aligns perfectly with our coastal mission, where students can study real-time issues like sea-level rise and habitat preservation right in our backyard." Students, too, are optimistic. Sophomore marine science major Sarah Jenkins shared her excitement: "It's great to have a president who gets it – who understands that success isn't just about grades but about building a supportive community. I'm looking forward to more internship opportunities with local environmental groups."

However, Ramirez acknowledges that growth comes with challenges. The university faces competition from larger institutions like the University of South Carolina and Clemson University, as well as the allure of online degrees from platforms like Coursera and edX. Additionally, South Carolina's higher education landscape is grappling with budget constraints amid inflation and shifting demographics. "We must be strategic," Ramirez admitted. "This means fostering inclusivity for underrepresented groups, such as first-generation college students and those from rural areas, while ensuring our curriculum evolves to meet the needs of a digital economy." To address these issues, she has formed an advisory council comprising alumni, business leaders, and community stakeholders to guide long-term planning.

Ramirez's background adds a layer of inspiration to her leadership. Born to immigrant parents in a small Texas town, she was the first in her family to attend college. "Education transformed my life, and I want to pay that forward," she reflected. Her career trajectory includes stints at community colleges, where she championed access for non-traditional students, and a tenure as vice president for student affairs at a flagship state university. This diverse experience has equipped her with a holistic view of higher education's ecosystem, from recruitment to alumni engagement.

Looking ahead, Ramirez envisions CCU not just as a regional powerhouse but as a national model for student-focused growth. She points to potential collaborations with nearby institutions, such as joint programs with Horry-Georgetown Technical College, to create seamless pathways for transfer students. Environmental sustainability is another focus area, with plans to make the campus carbon-neutral by 2035 through solar initiatives and green building practices. "Our location on the coast demands that we lead in climate resilience education," she said.

Community leaders in Conway and Myrtle Beach have welcomed Ramirez's vision. Mayor Barbara Blain-Bellamy of Conway expressed enthusiasm: "CCU is integral to our local economy, employing thousands and attracting visitors. Dr. Ramirez's plans for growth will amplify that impact, creating jobs and fostering innovation." Similarly, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce sees opportunities for enhanced workforce development, particularly in tourism and hospitality sectors that drive the region's $10 billion annual economy.

As Ramirez settles into her role, she remains committed to transparency and engagement. Monthly town hall meetings with students and faculty are already on the calendar, and she's active on social media, sharing updates and soliciting feedback. "This isn't my university; it's ours," she emphasized. "Together, we'll build a legacy of success and growth that honors our coastal heritage while embracing the future."

In summary, Dr. Elena Ramirez's presidency marks a new chapter for Coastal Carolina University, one defined by a relentless pursuit of student achievement and strategic expansion. With her proven track record and forward-thinking strategies, CCU is poised to navigate the complexities of modern higher education and emerge stronger than ever. As the fall semester approaches, the campus buzzes with anticipation, ready to embrace the changes that lie ahead.

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Read the Full WMBF News Article at:
[ https://www.wmbfnews.com/2025/07/31/new-coastal-carolina-president-aims-focus-student-success-growth/ ]