UNCF Selected ZRG Partners for CEO Search
The UNCF Board of Directors has tapped the firm to lead the nationwide search for a successor to current leader Dr. Michael L. Lomax.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in People
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The UNCF Board of Directors has selected ZRG Partners to spearhead the national search for a new president and chief executive officer. This transition follows the announcement that Dr. Michael L. Lomax will conclude his 22-year tenure on July 1, 2027.
Why it matters
The board prioritized the selection of a firm with specialized expertise in education, nonprofit management, and the Historically Black Colleges and Universities sector to ensure a seamless leadership transition.
Dr. Michael L. Lomax has served as president and CEO for 22 years. ZRG Partners will now begin evaluating market insights and conducting stakeholder outreach to develop a new leadership profile.
The players
UNCF
This nonprofit organization based in Washington, DC, serves as the nation's largest and most effective minority education organization.
Dr. Michael L. Lomax
He is the outgoing president and chief executive officer who has led the organization for over two decades.
ZRG Partners
This search firm has been selected by the board to manage the recruitment process for the next organizational leader.
Dr. Dakota Doman
He is a consultant at ZRG Partners who will serve as the lead facilitator for the national search.
The details
ZRG Partners will facilitate an extensive engagement process involving board members, the current CEO, leadership, institutional presidents, and major donors. The search process is expected to span several months as the firm works to identify a candidate aligned with the mission of the organization.
Timeline
Dr. Michael L. Lomax will conclude his tenure as president and CEO on July 1, 2027.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition reflects the broader industry trend of large nonprofits utilizing specialized recruitment firms to navigate the complexities of long-term succession planning. It positions the organization to maintain its market standing by aligning with institutional stakeholders during a critical shift.
The transition process is not expected to disrupt ongoing services or donor engagement as the search will unfold over the coming months. Stakeholders and institutional partners should expect continued operations throughout the duration of Dr. Lomax’s final term.
The takeaway
Selecting a search partner well in advance of a leadership departure allows organizations to conduct a thorough vetting process. Early planning is essential for nonprofits that require a candidate with deep, specialized ties to their specific operational sector.
Further reading
Learn more about organizational leadership changes by visiting United States People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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