James C. Renick facts for kids

James Carmichael Renick (born December 8, 1948 – died January 3, 2021) was an American educator and university leader. He served as the Chancellor of two major universities: the University of Michigan–Dearborn and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Mr. Renick also held a high position as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi. He left this role in October 2015.

Renick's Career in Education

Early in his career, Mr. Renick helped create a special program for future leaders at the University of South Florida. He also directed the public administration program there. He taught at the University of West Florida and George Mason University. In 1993, he became the fourth Chancellor of the University of Michigan–Dearborn.

Leading the University of Michigan-Dearborn

While at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, Mr. Renick worked to improve connections between the university and its local community. He also focused on getting more support from outside groups. He expanded the use of technology to make teaching and learning better. Under his leadership, more students enrolled than ever before. New study programs were also started. The university raised $25 million through a special fundraising effort. They also received money from the State of Michigan. This money helped build four important new buildings. These buildings were for the School of Engineering, the College of Business, a center for professional development, and the College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters.

Leading North Carolina A&T State University

On July 15, 1999, Mr. Renick became the Chancellor of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. He was officially welcomed as the ninth chancellor on April 20, 2000. During his time as chancellor, the university saw record numbers of students. New buildings and facilities were added to the campus. A major fundraising campaign aimed to raise $100 million.

Mr. Renick left North Carolina A&T in 2006. He then took a Vice President position at the American Council on Education. After he left, questions arose about how some grant money was used. An audit was done to look into the funds. The audit found that the money, although used differently than planned, was actually used to benefit the university. Because of this, Mr. Renick was not found to have broken any laws.

Awards and Recognition

• He received the Exemplary Award for Public Service.
• He was given The University of Michigan President's Medallion.
• He was listed in Who's Who in Black America.

Renick's Personal Life

James Renick was born in Rockford, Illinois. He earned his first degree from Central State University in 1970. He then received a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Kansas in 1972. In 1980, he earned his Doctor of Philosophy degree in government and public administration from Florida State University.

Mr. Renick was married to Peggy O. Gadsden. They had one daughter, Karinda. She also graduated from her father’s former university. In 2014, Mr. Renick became a Prince Hall Freemason in Jackson, Mississippi. He passed away on January 3, 2021. He was 72 years old and died from Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

See also

In Spanish: James C. Renick para niños