President Lewis Elected to CICU Board of Trustees

Houghton University President Wayne D. Lewis, Jr., has been elected to serve on the board of trustees for the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities in New York (CICU). This appointment highlights Houghton’s continued leadership in private higher education across New York State.

“I am honored to join the Board of Trustees of the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities in New York (CICU),” said Lewis. “Under President Brabham’s leadership, the CICU provides effective advocacy for the independent college and university sector in New York State. New York’s independent college sector provides diverse high-quality educational options for students. Our institutions are vital to our communities and our regional economies, and our sector is invaluable to New York State and the Northeast. I look forward to working alongside my trustee colleagues to champion the value of independent higher education options for students in New York.”

Lewis joins a distinguished group of presidents from colleges and universities representing every region of New York State who are committed to advocating for the needs of independent institutions, their students and their communities.  “We are proud to have such a strong incoming class of trustees to lend their expertise, talent, and vision for ensuring higher education in New York State remains strong,” said Lola W. Brabham, president of CICU. “Each president on CICU’s Board of Trustees is an invaluable voice that will help elevate and amplify CICU’s advocacy for the Independent Sector.”

Since becoming Houghton’s sixth president in June 2021, Lewis has led the successful transition from Houghton College to Houghton University, driven undergraduate and graduate enrollment growth, expanded the Early College program, and implemented the University’s new strategic plan focused on academic excellence and community impact. He also serves on multiple national boards and committees, including the NCAA Division III membership committee and the boards of directors for the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA).

About Houghton University

Houghton University is a nationally ranked Christian college of the liberal arts and sciences and New York’s leading evangelical Christian university. Offering over 50 undergraduate programs—including education, equestrian studies, pre-law, and biological sciences—as well as graduate programs in business, education, and music, Houghton commits to both academic excellence and affordability through initiatives like the Founder’s Promise Scholarship. Houghton’s two-year enrollment growth affirms the appeal of Christ-centered education in the Northeast, attracting students eager to transform the world for the glory of God. For more information, please visit www.houghton.edu.

About the CICU

CICU represents the public policy interests of more than 100 independent colleges and universities in New York State. Founded in 1956 by a small group of college and university presidents, CICU is an educational corporation formed under the New York State Regents whose mission is to provide opportunity and access to higher education through fairness, equity, and humanity. Visit www.cicu.org to learn more.