Dr. Chris Gilmer, the executive director of Alcorn State University’s Vicksburg Expansion Center, has been named the new president of West Virginia University-Parkersburg.

“I would like to thank the Vicksburg and Warren County communities for embracing David (Creel) and me and for making us feel right at home,” Gilmer said in an email. “I have sung the praises of Alcorn State University from coast to coast and will continue to do so, especially the dedication of its local alumni to their alma mater. Their unending support is inspirational to behold.”

Gilmer said he is looking forward to his new responsibility and fulfilling a goal he has had for sometime.

“It has been a privilege to serve Alcorn, and it will be the fulfillment of a lifelong dream to serve West Virginia University at Parkersburg as its next president,” Gilmer said. “The two institutions have much in common in their mission and in the students they serve, and I hope what I have learned at Alcorn has prepared me to be the best possible servant leader in my new role in West Virginia.”

Gilmer said he expects to be in Vicksburg through June and begin his new position around July 1.