News Summary
Michael T. Benson, president of Coastal Carolina University, will become the new president of West Virginia University on July 15, 2025. After nearly five years at CCU, Benson is excited to embrace this opportunity, noted for its impressive research capabilities and commitment to academic excellence. While leaving cherished memories in Myrtle Beach, he prepares for a significant salary increase and a role that emphasizes community partnerships and student success. His experience, notable credentials, and community engagement promise to greatly influence his new institution.
Charleston: A New Chapter for Higher Education
Exciting changes are coming for the world of higher education! Michael T. Benson, the president of Coastal Carolina University (CCU), is set to lead the charge at West Virginia University (WVU) as their new president. Benson confirmed that after nearly five years at CCU, he is ready to take on this *once-in-a-career opportunity* and begin his new role on July 15, 2025.
The Move to West Virginia University
Benson’s journey is truly remarkable. His decision to leave CCU comes with a deep sense of nostalgia; he has built meaningful relationships within the tight-knit community and is particularly sentimental about the friendships his children forged at Myrtle Beach High School. It’s never easy to say goodbye, especially when you’ve created such wonderful memories.
His next adventure at WVU is a significant leap, as the university is recognized as a Research 1 institution with impressive research and development expenditures totaling $275 million in just the previous year. Known for its commitment to both academic excellence and athletics, WVU is a proud member of the Big 12 athletic conference, boasting a thriving academic medical center.
A New Salary and Benefits
In terms of compensation, Benson’s new base salary at WVU will be $850,000 annually, which is a substantial increase from his previous base of $245,000 at CCU. His prior package, including various allowances and bonuses, brought him to a total compensation of $575,000 in 2022. At WVU, he stands to benefit further, with annual raises based on performance and perks like two vehicles for personal use and reimbursement for up to $100,000 in relocation expenses.
To give a bit of background, Benson’s past contract with CCU initially covered moving expenses up to $5,000, but was later adjusted to $10,000. Clearly, as he advances in his career, the incentive packages also scale up!
A Rich History and Strong Community Involvement
Benson’s credentials are impressive. He has previously held presidential positions at Snow College, Southern Utah University, and Eastern Kentucky University. His fundraising capabilities are particularly noteworthy; he made history at CCU by securing its largest gift ever, a whopping $10 million donation!
Academically, he has quite the background, boasting a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University, a doctorate from the University of Oxford, and two master’s degrees from the University of Notre Dame and Johns Hopkins University. Apart from being an administration powerhouse, he has also shared his knowledge as a history professor at CCU.
Looking Forward
As he transitions to WVU, Benson is genuinely enthusiastic about collaborating with faculty and staff to create an enriching environment for students. It’s no surprise that the WVU Board of Governors enthusiastically endorsed his appointment with a vote of 15-2, following the planned retirement of longtime president Gordon Gee, who has had two separate tenures since 1981.
The WVU community seems to be on board with Benson’s selection, praising his *qualifications* and commitment to fostering strong community partnerships. Benson, along with his wife Debi and their three children, as well as two older children from a previous marriage, is set to dive into this new role with vigor.
As we look ahead, it’s clear that both CCU and WVU are embarking on new journeys. Change is in the air for Benson, and for all of us watching, it’s sure to be an exciting ride!
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
