A man who helped lead the effort to redefine the future of Cheyney University will also execute that vision.

Local task force co-chair, longtime Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Board of Governors member, and former Highmark Senior Vice President Aaron A. Walton was hired for the job of interim president last week, according to a Philadelphia Inquirer report by Susan Snyder.

Walton succeeds Frank G. Pogue, who spent the past two and a half years as interim president, and will receive $248,000 per year for the challenge.

“Cheyney University is in the midst of a major transition toward a new operational model, even as it faces unprecedented challenges to its long-term sustainability. It needs strong leadership now more than ever,” said Board of Governors Chair Cynthia K. Shapira.

“Aaron has a strong track record of leadership. As a member of both the Board of Governors for more than a decade and of the Council of Trustees at Cal U. for more than 20 years, he understands the enormous challenges facing higher education today, including those uniquely affecting Cheyney.”

The task force has recommended a redesign of academic programming, the sale of land, and the elimination of NCAA Division II sports.

“For decades, Cheyney University’s graduation rate has been about two-thirds lower than the rest of the state system,” its report stated. “Currently, only 7.9 percent of students graduate in four years, and 17.5 percent graduate in six years. Cheyney University’s students deserve better.”

Read more about new Cheyney University Interim President Aaron Walton in the Philadelphia Inquirer here.