Lipscomb University launches LUInnovate, appoints first chief innovation officer
Kim Chaudoin |
Lipscomb University today announced the launch of LUInnovate, the university’s new Office of Innovation, dedicated to advancing Lipscomb’s mission through high-quality programming, strategic partnerships and innovative learning models. Leading this new initiative is Todd McCullough, who has been appointed the university’s first chief innovation officer.
McCullough, a seasoned executive with over three decades of experience advising Fortune 500 companies, global consulting firms, and higher education institutions, will spearhead LUInnovate’s efforts to expand Lipscomb’s reach and impact. His expertise in business strategy, innovation and organizational transformation has helped shape the growth of companies such as The Coca-Cola Company, Ford Motor Company, Target and Anthem. McCullough has also taught innovation and strategic growth at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management and the Institute of Design at the Illinois Institute of Technology.
“LUInnovate represents another exciting step forward for Lipscomb University as we continue to cultivate a culture of creativity, entrepreneurship and forward-thinking education,” said Lipscomb President Candice McQueen. “With Todd McCullough’s leadership and our talented Lipscomb team, we are poised to continue to build innovative, high-quality programs that broaden access to education and drive meaningful impact.”
As chief innovation officer, McCullough will lead LUInnovate in developing innovative education models, identifying strategic business development opportunities and fostering collaboration across Lipscomb’s academic departments and external partners. His role aligns a key goal of Lipscomb’s Impact 360 Strategic Plan, which focuses on fostering an entrepreneurial spirit while advancing the university’s distinctive mission.
“I am honored to join Lipscomb University in this new role,” said McCullough. “Higher education is considered one of the industries most in need of innovation. Lipscomb — a healthy, growing university with Christ-centered core values in the hot city of Nashville — is an ideal position to define and embody what the future of higher education can be.”
“I’m excited to partner with President McQueen and the Lipscomb community to take on the important challenge — to remain true to our principles while we adapt to flourish in an ever-changing environment.”
LUInnovate’s mission is to maximize exposure and access to Lipscomb University’s educational offerings through high-quality content, unique learning experiences and industry partnerships. The office will work closely with university leadership, faculty and external stakeholders to design and implement innovative programs and partnerships.
This work is being funded by significant investments in the Lipscomb Innovation Fund, which was initially started by a gift from Sue Nokes, a member of Lipscomb’s Board of Trustees, and has continued to grow due to the generosity of additional donors.
McCullough has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Harding University and a Master of Business Administration from Vanderbilt University. He will begin his work in this new role on Feb. 10.