Ludwig P. Gaines, J.D., began serving as Talladega College’s Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships on July 1. As an esteemed lawyer, elected official, former CEO of several Washington, D.C.-based nonprofits, and higher education volunteer, Gaines brings a wealth of experience to the College’s executive leadership team.
Gaines says, “An important part of my job will be working with stakeholders to ensure that our strategic plan is aligned with the mission of Talladega College, and that we're realizing the goals and objectives adopted by President Vincent, the leadership team, and the Board of Trustees. Dr. Vincent has assembled a great team. I’m very excited to work under his leadership and with my new colleagues on the senior team as well as faculty, staff, alumni, supporters, and past, present, and future partners.”
President Gregory J. Vincent says, “Vice President Gaines is fulfilling a unique role at the College as we benefit from a strong financial position, noble mission, and an ambitious plan for the future. Not only is he a strong supporter for HBCUs, but he advocates for robust educational experiences for all students, especially talented students from underserved backgrounds. He brings many valuable contacts and relationships to the table. With his extensive experience in legal and public affairs and a notable presence on the board of a prestigious liberal arts college, Mr. Gaines’ experiences are ideal for his work as Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships.”
Much of Gaines’ time initially will be spent establishing strategic partnerships that will help meet the ambitious goals set out in Talladega College’s new strategic plan in partnership with UNCF’s Institute for Capacity Building. For example, Gaines wants to bring Talladega College to Capitol Hill and Wall Street in the form of new student experiences, internships, employment opportunities and funding. Part of his role is to work with the Office of Institutional Advancement to create a funding pipeline for those programs and more, and to share the important legacy of Talladega College in those impactful arenas.
Gaines believes the inspiring mission and rich history of Talladega College are more important than ever given the recent Supreme Court ruling curtailing affirmative action at institutions of higher education. “That decision creates an even more pressing need for educational opportunities for all students, particularly students of color and talented low-income first-generation students. I am passionate and excited to assist Talladega in continuing to create a sustainable and robust educational experience for its students—one that's true to its mission, prepares for service in the local and global community, and is able to evolve and thrive in the current and future higher educational landscapes,” he says.
Gaines grew up in Queens, New York. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Hobart and William Smith Colleges and his J.D. at Howard University. He’s completed leadership training at Harvard’s Kennedy School. For the past several years he has served as Principal and Owner of The Gaines Group Consulting. Previously he was the Executive Director of three nonprofit organizations and Vice President for Legal Affairs for a successful 8(a) minority-owned company. He served as a city council member for the City of Alexandria, Virginia, for six years, and worked on numerous local, state, and national boards, commissions, and political campaigns. He also served as NAACP Political Action Chair. Gaines is past President of Hobart College’s Alumni Association and currently is a member of the Hobart and William Smith Board of Trustees. Gaines, a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and former collegiate All-State sprinter and long jumper, is the recipient of numerous public and community service awards.
