University of the Cumberlands Welcomes Dr. Quentin Young as Its Next President

The University of the Cumberlands Board of Trustees has announced that Dr. Quentin Young has officially assumed the role of the 11th President in the university’s 137-year history. Dr. Young succeeds Dr. Larry L. Cockrum, who is transitioning to the role of President Emeritus following a transformative decade of leadership.

Dr. Young, who joined the Cumberlands family in 2016, has served in various leadership capacities, including Executive Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer. With a background in finance, administration, and strategic leadership, he has played a key role in fostering institutional growth and advancing initiatives such as the Cumberlands Commitment and One Price Promise.

“It is a tremendous honor to serve as president of the University of the Cumberlands,” said Dr. Young. “This institution has had a profound impact on my life and on the lives of thousands of students and alumni who have found their purpose here. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead Cumberlands into its next chapter, to build upon a legacy of excellence and service, and to ensure that we remain a place where access and opportunity transform lives.”

Dr. Cockrum, who guided the university through a period of historic growth and innovation, expressed confidence in his successor. “Dr. Young has been an integral part of our leadership team and a driving force behind many of the initiatives that have strengthened our institution,” said Dr. Cockrum. “He is deeply committed to our mission and values, and I am confident that under his leadership, Cumberlands will continue to thrive.”

Board of Trustees Chair Scott Thompson also commended the appointment, noting the Board’s unanimous support for Dr. Young’s leadership. “Dr. Young is a thoughtful, mission-driven leader who has earned the respect of his colleagues and the trust of our university community,” said Thompson. “He brings both a deep understanding of Cumberlands and a clear vision for its future. The Board looks forward to working alongside him as we continue advancing the university’s commitment to students and to service.”

Dr. Young holds a Ph.D. in Information Technology, an M.S. in Information Systems Security, an M.B.A. with an Accounting emphasis, and a B.S. in Accounting, all from the University of the Cumberlands. Prior to his tenure at Cumberlands, he worked in banking, accounting, and real estate with the Forcht Group of Kentucky.

A native of Whitley County, Kentucky, Dr. Young and his wife, Samantha, are the proud parents of three children, Evan, Ella, and Emery.