Wilson inaugurated as sixth CSM president

Yolanda Wilson was officially inaugurated as the sixth president of the College of Southern Maryland on March 28.

Wilson has served as the president since Jan. 3, 2023, and is the first African American to have the job in the college’s 65-year history.

Before becoming the president of CSM, Wilson was vice president of instruction at the Ashe Campus and Alleghany Center of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, N.C. She worked in the North Carolina and South Carolina community college systems for more two decades prior to working in Maryland.

Taking the role of CSM president was a homecoming for her, as she was born and raised in Prince George’s County.

“We have chosen one of our best,” Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md., 5th) said at last week’s inauguration held at the college’s La Plata campus.

“If we are going to be a vibrant, strong society, it will be because we educate everyone to the extent of their talent,” Hoyer said. “That is why we take great care in choosing our leaders.”

Wilson received a house resolution from the Maryland House of Delegates read by Del. Jeffrie E. Long Jr. (D-Calvert, Prince George’s) that congratulated her on her inauguration.

Charles County Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II (D) did not attend the event in person but prerecorded a message to Wilson, where he said, “Your dedication to students is unparalleled.”

“You understand education is equally academic achievement and nurturing the holistic development of individuals,” Collins said. “I have every confidence that, under your direction, CSM will continue to thrive.”

St. Mary’s County Commissioner President Randy Guy (R) spoke in person at the event and gave a call to action to elected officials in the room, saying, “If there are any senators or delegates here, I hope you go back to Annapolis and fully fund CSM.”

Guy was followed by Calvert County Commissioner President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance (R), who said, “It’s heartwarming to see someone who grew up in Southern Maryland come back and give back.”

“I am honored and humbled to be the sixth president of this amazing institution,” Wilson said in her speech.

She emphasized the need for belonging in the CSM community and pledged to put resources in line with student needs, specifically mental health and wellness.

Wilson explained how she has already made herself accessible to the students of the college, taking time each semester to sit down and have conversations with groups to see where CSM can do better.

“We will go far only when we go together,” Wilson said.