Isaiah McGee

Isaiah R. McGee currently serves as Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Claflin University. Throughout his career in higher education, he has remained committed to student success, academic excellence, faculty development, community engagement, and institutional advancement. His leadership style reflects a collaborative approach centered on mentorship, strategic growth, innovation, and preparing students to become leaders in an ever-changing global society. As Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, McGee provides leadership for one of the university’s largest academic schools, overseeing 19 academic degree programs, multiple departments, and one of the university’s largest faculty populations. Under his leadership, the School has experienced significant growth in sponsored research, curriculum innovation, faculty development, and strategic planning. He has worked closely with faculty, staff, and university leadership to strengthen academic programs, support accreditation efforts, recruit and retain highly qualified faculty, and create meaningful opportunities that enhance the academic experience for students. McGee has also played a major role in developing institutional partnerships and collaborative initiatives that expand opportunities for students and faculty. Through partnerships with institutions such as Yale University, Clemson University, London Metropolitan University, and the University of South Carolina, he has helped create pathways for graduate study, research collaboration, faculty exchange, and international learning experiences. His commitment to academic innovation has also led to the implementation of initiatives focused on workforce readiness, global engagement, interdisciplinary learning, and student achievement. A strong advocate for the humanities and student development, McGee has served as Principal Investigator and Co-Principal Investigator for several major grants funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation totaling more than $2.4 million. These projects focused on internationalizing the curriculum, redesigning general education, integrating career readiness competencies, and supporting social justice and scholar activism through curricular innovation. Prior to serving as Dean, McGee served as Chair of the Department of Music at Claflin University, where he provided leadership for the growth and development of the department. During his tenure, the department achieved full accreditation with the National Association of Schools of Music, established its first Jazz Studies program, increased student enrollment, expanded scholarship support, and strengthened community and donor partnerships. He also secured major support for instruments, scholarships, and program development that helped position the department for long-term growth and success. As Director of Choral Studies, McGee cultivated a vibrant and highly respected choral program recognized for artistic excellence, community engagement, and student achievement. Under his leadership, the choir performed for gubernatorial inaugurations and was selected to perform during activities associated with the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He has served as a guest conductor, adjudicator, clinician, and presenter throughout the United States and continues to support music education and choral excellence through professional service and mentorship. McGee earned the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Music Education with an emphasis in Choral Conducting from Florida State University. His dissertation, The Origin and Historical Development of Prominent Professional Black Choirs in the United States, reflects his research interests in African American choral traditions, music history, and cultural preservation. He also earned the Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance from the University of South Carolina and the Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Merchandising and Management from South Carolina State University. In addition to his academic leadership, McGee remains actively engaged in professional and community service. He currently serves as President of the Board of Directors for the Orangeburg County Community of Character and has contributed to numerous educational, civic, and cultural organizations throughout his career. His dedication to service, leadership, and education has earned him numerous honors and recognitions, including teaching awards, leadership awards, and recognition by the United States Congress for outstanding service and leadership. McGee’s career reflects a deep commitment to educational leadership, student empowerment, faculty mentorship, and the transformative impact of the arts and humanities in higher education and society.