Talladega College is pleased to announce the appointment of Taran L. McZee, Ph.D. as Chief of Staff to the President and Chief Executive Officer, effective August 3, 2026.
As Chief of Staff and a member of the President's Cabinet, Dr. McZee will serve as a key strategic advisor to President Dr. Willie L. Todd, Jr., providing executive leadership and operational support to advance the College's mission and long-term priorities. He will also serve as the College's Title IX Officer and lead initiatives focused on the success and engagement of male students.
Dr. McZee brings extensive experience in higher education leadership with a distinguished record of advancing institutional excellence, organizational effectiveness, and student success. Most recently, he served as Vice President for Belonging and Culture and Title IX Officer, where he led transformative initiatives that strengthened campus climate, accountability, and institutional culture.
His professional expertise spans executive leadership, organizational development, strategic planning, executive coaching, and crisis response. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for building collaborative partnerships and developing innovative strategies that enhance institutional performance while creating environments where students, faculty, and staff can thrive.
"Dr. McZee is an accomplished higher education leader whose strategic vision, collaborative leadership style, and unwavering commitment to student success make him an exceptional addition to Talladega College," said Dr. Willie L. Todd, Jr., President and CEO of Talladega College. "As we continue Reimagining Liberal Arts Education, his experience in organizational leadership and institutional effectiveness will be instrumental in helping us execute our strategic priorities, strengthen our campus community, and position Talladega College for continued growth and excellence."
A respected leader within higher education, Dr. McZee serves on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education and on the board of the Black Boys & Men National Symposium. His leadership and service have earned numerous honors, including the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award presented by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.
Dr. McZee earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation from the University of Kentucky. He also holds a Master of Arts in Educational Administration and Community Leadership and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology.
In his new role, Dr. McZee will work closely with the President to coordinate strategic initiatives, support institutional planning, strengthen cross campus collaboration, oversee Title IX compliance, and develop programs that enhance student engagement and success, particularly among male students.
His appointment reflects Talladega College's continued investment in leadership that supports innovation, operational excellence, and student-centered success as the institution builds upon its historic legacy while shaping the future of higher education.
