The Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) recently appointed Spartanburg Methodist College President Scott Cochran to serve on its Council of Presidents.

“I’m honored to be asked to join the Council of Presidents. I look forward to contributing to the mission of the organization and the future of higher education,” Cochran said. “We have a tremendous relationship with our Board of Trustees at SMC, and I hope I can share some of that experience and knowledge with AGB and its members.”

AGB is a national organization focused on providing education and leadership for boards, administrators, staff, and policymakers regarding the importance of higher education. The Council of Presidents leverages the experience, perspectives, and insights of its members with active leadership roles for the development of AGB expertise designed to strengthen strategic board governance across higher education.

“Our council members generously agree to lend their time and talent to advancing strategic governance across higher education,” said Henry Stoever, AGB president and CEO. “Alongside the AGB Board of Directors, AGB consultants, and other board governance experts, the AGB Council of Presidents ensures that boards across the country are receiving leading and practical guidance on salient topics throughout the year. These council members help to ensure that we are aware of not only what’s going on at that moment but also what they need to know from AGB to lead with confidence and knowledge in the boardroom. It’s a crucial partnership, and I appreciate their hard work.”

Cochran was named the president of SMC in 2015 and has overseen an extended period of growth at the college, resulting in three years of record student enrollment prior to the impact of the pandemic. During his tenure, the College has expanded its educational offerings, adding four-year bachelor’s degree programs and an expanded online degree program.

Prior to joining SMC, Cochran served as Dean of The Space in the Mungo Center at Wofford College as well as an adjunct professor of finance. He had a 20-year career in the financial services industry with UPS Capital Corporation and GMAC Finance before moving into higher education. Cochran is also a member of the Liberty Fellowship, the board of United Way of the Piedmont and the board of South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities, and the Rotary Club of Spartanburg.