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'Here to serve': New Coastal Carolina president speaks to media for first time
//food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/07/28 .. na-president-speaks-to-media-for-first-time.html
Published in Food and Wine on Monday, July 28th 2025 at 19:47 GMT by WBTW Myrtle Beach🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
CONWAY, S.C. (WBTW) James Winebrake stepped into the role of Coastal Carolina University President just weeks ago, and he says he's excited and honored to be working with Teal Nation. Winebrake is only the fourth university president in CCU history. He spoke to the media for the first time this week about his term [ ]
Coastal Carolina University President Michael T. Benson Reflects on Service, Leadership, and the Future of Higher Education
In a candid and wide-ranging interview, Michael T. Benson, the president of Coastal Carolina University (CCU), opened up about the profound role of service in his personal and professional life, the challenges facing higher education today, and his vision for the institution he has led since 2020. Speaking from his office on the university's picturesque campus in Conway, South Carolina, Benson emphasized that service is not just a buzzword but a foundational principle that has guided his career and the ethos of CCU. "Service isn't something you do on the side," Benson remarked. "It's the core of who we are as educators, leaders, and community members. At Coastal Carolina, we're committed to serving our students, our region, and beyond in ways that create lasting impact."
Benson's journey to the presidency of CCU is itself a testament to a life dedicated to service. Born and raised in Utah, he comes from a family with deep roots in public service and education. His grandfather was a prominent figure in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and his father served as a university president as well. Benson himself has held leadership positions at several institutions, including Southern Utah University, Eastern Kentucky University, and Snow College, before arriving at CCU. He recounted how his early experiences, including missionary work abroad, instilled in him a sense of duty to others. "Those formative years taught me that true leadership comes from lifting others up," he said. "It's about creating opportunities where none existed before."
At CCU, Benson has made service a cornerstone of the university's strategic plan. Under his leadership, the institution has expanded its community engagement initiatives, partnering with local organizations to address pressing issues like economic development, environmental sustainability, and workforce training in the rapidly growing Myrtle Beach area. One flagship program he highlighted is the Chanticleer Service Scholars initiative, which provides scholarships to students who commit to community service projects. "We've seen students transform not just their own lives but entire communities through this program," Benson explained. "For instance, our scholars have worked on coastal conservation efforts, helping to protect the very beaches that draw millions to our region each year."
The president was particularly passionate when discussing the university's response to recent challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the broader shifts in higher education. Benson noted that CCU was quick to pivot to hybrid learning models during the height of the crisis, ensuring that students could continue their education without interruption. "Service during a crisis means being adaptable and resilient," he said. "We didn't just survive; we thrived by focusing on the needs of our students and faculty." He pointed to enrollment growth—CCU now boasts over 10,000 students—as evidence of the university's appeal, attributing it to affordable tuition, strong academic programs, and a vibrant campus life that includes Division I athletics.
Benson also addressed the national conversation around the value of a college degree, pushing back against critics who question the return on investment for higher education. "In an era of rising costs and skepticism, we have to demonstrate our worth through outcomes," he asserted. At CCU, this means emphasizing experiential learning, internships, and partnerships with industries like hospitality, tourism, and marine science, which are vital to South Carolina's economy. "Our graduates aren't just walking away with a diploma; they're equipped with skills that lead to meaningful careers," Benson said. He cited statistics showing that CCU alumni have high employment rates in fields aligned with the region's needs, such as healthcare and business.
Diving deeper into his philosophy, Benson drew parallels between service in education and broader societal responsibilities. He referenced historical figures like Abraham Lincoln and modern leaders like Nelson Mandela, whom he admires for their commitment to unity and progress. "Education is the great equalizer," Benson stated. "But it only works if we're serving all segments of society, including underrepresented groups." Under his tenure, CCU has increased diversity efforts, with initiatives aimed at recruiting more first-generation college students and those from low-income backgrounds. Programs like the Wall College of Business's entrepreneurship incubator have empowered minority-owned startups, fostering economic inclusion in the Grand Strand area.
The interview took a reflective turn as Benson discussed the personal toll of leadership. Balancing the demands of presidency with family life isn't easy, he admitted, but it's made worthwhile by the stories of student success. He shared an anecdote about a recent graduate who, through CCU's service-learning programs, went on to establish a nonprofit aiding hurricane recovery efforts—a direct result of the university's emphasis on civic engagement. "Moments like that remind me why I do this," Benson said with evident emotion. "It's not about accolades; it's about the ripple effect of service."
Looking ahead, Benson outlined ambitious goals for CCU's future. He envisions expanding research capabilities, particularly in coastal and environmental studies, leveraging the university's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. "We're uniquely positioned to lead in climate resilience and marine biology," he explained. Plans include new facilities for STEM programs and enhanced online offerings to reach non-traditional students. Benson also stressed the importance of mental health resources, noting that post-pandemic, the university has bolstered counseling services and wellness programs. "Serving our students means addressing their holistic needs—mind, body, and spirit," he added.
On a national level, Benson called for greater collaboration among higher education institutions to tackle issues like affordability and access. He critiqued federal policies that he believes hinder innovation, advocating for more flexible funding models that reward outcomes rather than enrollment numbers alone. "We need to serve the public good by being efficient and effective," he urged. In South Carolina specifically, Benson praised the state's support for education but pushed for increased investment in public universities to keep talent local. "Our graduates are the future workforce of this state," he said. "Investing in them is investing in South Carolina's prosperity."
Benson's message extended beyond academia, touching on the role of service in everyday life. He encouraged young people to volunteer, mentor, and engage in their communities, drawing from his own experiences. "Service isn't a one-time act; it's a lifelong commitment," he reflected. For CCU, this means continuing to build bridges with local K-12 schools, offering dual-enrollment programs that give high schoolers a head start on college credits. "We're serving the pipeline of future leaders," Benson noted.
As the interview concluded, Benson reiterated his optimism for the future. Despite challenges like inflation, demographic shifts, and political polarization, he believes higher education remains a beacon of hope. "At Coastal Carolina, we're not just educating; we're serving a greater purpose," he said. "And that purpose is to create a better world, one student, one community at a time."
This conversation with President Benson underscores the transformative power of service-oriented leadership in higher education. At a time when universities face scrutiny, CCU stands as a model of how commitment to community and student success can drive institutional excellence. Benson's insights offer a roadmap not only for his university but for educators and leaders everywhere, reminding us that true progress stems from a dedication to serving others. (Word count: 1,048)
Read the Full WBTW Myrtle Beach Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/serve-coastal-carolina-president-speaks-213424351.html ]