Howard University has named a new president.

Bowling Green State University President Sidney Ribeau will become the 16th leader of one of the nation's most prestigious historically black schools.

Howard officials made the announcement Wednesday. Ribeau will succeed H. Patrick Swygert, who is stepping down in June after 12 years at the helm of Howard.

Ribeau is an expert in interpersonal communication. He has been president of Bowling Green State University for 13 years. Under his leadership, the Ohio school has been recognized for its residential learning communities and innovative graduate programs.

Swygert is credited with bringing stability to Howard after the campus went through a series of leaders. But some faculty leaders have accused him of putting the school in financial jeopardy.

Email To A Friend