President Spence Appointed as MICUA Chair

The Maryland Independent College and University Association (MICUA) has appointed Washington Adventist University President  Dr. Weymouth Spence as the new chairman of the board of trustees after 15 years of service as a board member.

MICUA’s selection process began earlier this year, culminating with the board’s approval for a two-year term beginning on July 1st, 2023.

“I’m looking forward to working under Dr. Spence’s leadership,” said Matt Power, president of MICUA. “His vast experience will undoubtedly enhance MICUA’s advocacy for independent higher education.”

Dr. Spence, who has worked in higher education for more than four decades, has spent the last 15 years on MICUA’s board. During his tenure as a board member, he helped foster strong relationships between Washington Adventist University and other institutions, enhanced capital campus funding, and increased opportunities for financial aid for students. Now, he is ready to step into his next leadership role. 

Initially, I thought it would be too much additional duties to my attendant WAU responsibilities, but cabinet members encouraged me to accept the nomination,” Dr. Spence said. “Also, having given much thought to the nomination, and considering that I have served in other roles on the MICUA Board, I believe it would be a great opportunity to serve at another level in fulfilling MICUA’s mandate, while achieving institutional recognition.”

MICUA, a leading advocate for independent higher education in Maryland, is a member-driven organization devoted to promoting independent higher education and the public benefit that it provides to meet educational, economic and cultural needs. According to Communications Director Stephanie Thomas, one of the organization’s primary goals is to “preserve the ability for students to access independent higher education.” 

Dr. Spence echoed these words, stating that MICUA “contributes to the sustainability and relevance of independent higher education institutions in Maryland.”

Beyond building strategic relationships and fostering collaborative efforts among each of its 15 members, MICUA has also taken proactive measures to inform the general public about the importance of higher education and advocate for private institutions in matters relating to public policy.

Spence says he wishes to continue MICUA’s exceptional work, emphasizing his hopes to “offer opportunities for institutional enhancement based on the changing environment of higher education.”