85: Embracing Black Students for Who They Are at the HBCU - with Dr. Dwaun Warmack, President of Claflin University

Welcome back to the EdUp Experience, America’s leading higher education podcast where we make education your business. I’m your host Elizabeth Leiba, and with me today is Dr. Dwaun Warmack, President of Claflin University. Dr. Warmack, how are you today?

I’m doing exceptionally well. How about yourself?

I’m doing amazing. I can’t complain. It’s been a busy day, but we’re going to make things happen. I’m excited to speak with you. I have a ton of questions and so much that I want to discuss. But before I do, I wanted to ask you, how are you and your community handling COVID-19?  

Well, our number one priority is the health, safety and wellbeing of all our constituents. We’re making adjustments as needed during this difficult time. Personally, my family and I are doing everything in our power to try and stay healthy. Our faith is important, so we’re keeping the faith and knowing we’re covered.  

Tell us about Claflin University and your mission.

Claflin is the oldest HBCU in South Carolina, founded in 1869. We continue to be thought leaders in diversity, equity and inclusion, which has been part of our mission from the beginning. We prepare global, visionary leaders and infuse that into our curriculum and teaching. Our alumni are successful in graduate school and beyond. We believe in developing the whole student academically, personally, socially and spiritually. We’re unapologetic about our faith and history as an HBCU. I’m the ninth president in 151 years, which speaks to our sustained leadership and commitment to longevity.  

How have you adapted during COVID-19 regarding learning formats and student safety? 

We implemented an inclusive planning process with faculty, staff, students and community members. We prepared detailed plans for fully reopening, a hybrid model, or fully online. We were ready to reopen with investments in PPE, cleaning, and safety protocols. But seeing COVID cases rise in our community, we pivoted for everyone’s wellbeing. I’m grateful for our agile faculty and staff during this difficult time, and our focus remains on student success.

What makes the HBCU experience unique and how can predominantly white institutions learn from that?

HBCUs intentionally embrace students for who they are and help them get where they want to go. Retention, satisfaction and engagement are infused in the culture, not an add-on. Faculty see education as mission-driven work and really know their students, who aren’t just a number. This whole-person approach explains our high graduation rates despite challenges many students face. PWIs need more diversity in leadership, faculty and staff so students can feel nurtured, challenged and supported. But HBCU alumni are well-prepared to compete anywhere when they leave.

You recently partnered with Zoom on internships and other initiatives. Can you discuss that?

It started with conversations facilitated by Congressmen James Clyburn about Silicon Valley workforce needs. We envisioned a true partnership beyond just internships, creating faculty exchanges, online learning collaborations and more. It shows the power of public-private partnerships for mutual benefit. We prepare talent that feeds companies like Zoom, and this helps us expand educational access. We’re excited Zoom’s COO will join our Board as part of this partnership and their commitment to supporting HBCUs.  

What’s your advice for aspiring black higher education leaders and how can senior leaders better support diversity?

First, leadership shouldn't be about titles or popularity but real, mission-driven work. Have courage to challenge the status quo when you get opportunities, rather than just be thankful you’re “at the table.” Lift others up too, instead of arriving and closing the door behind you. And sponsor emerging leaders rather than just mentoring them. Second, for senior leaders at PWIs, diversity has to be an authentic commitment, not lip service. Look beyond pipelines and invest to genuinely attract, retain and listen to diverse voices with solutions that serve today’s students.

You wrote about colleges’ duty to impact positive national change. How can higher education drive that change following the murder of George Floyd?  

First, admit systemic racism and injustice exist. Then identify meaningful, measurable solutions and have courageous conversations to drive change. We must create space for real dialogue, be willing to disagree, and move in a positive direction. I still face assumptions as an African American male leader, despite my credentials and successes. We need truth-telling to raise awareness and collaborative action toward progress.  

What do you see as the future of higher education?

COVID-19 forced institutions to reimagine utilizing technology. Today’s students were born into a digital world and we have to match that with engaged teaching strategies. We’re exploring more online delivery, hybrid models, compressing time to degrees, work-based credentials and Certificate programs. But the heart of higher education remains student success, safety and holistic development. I commend all institutions for crisis adaptations and creativity while staying mission-focused despite difficulties this year.