About Brian
Hi, I’m Brian. Let’s Connect!
Brian Ralph is a seasoned executive leader with over three decades of experience in higher education. He has served as a University President for nine years and held various Vice President roles in Enrollment, Athletics, Student Life, Student Success, and Marketing. He also has served on and chaired numerous non-profit boards and professional associations.
With a Ph.D. in Organizational Communication and Culture, an M.B.A., and an undergraduate degree in Business Administration, Dr. Ralph possesses a strong academic foundation. He earned a certificate in Executive Coaching and is a published author on enrollment strategy. His expertise has been recognized through keynote speaking engagements at local, regional, and national conferences.
Active in his local communities, Brian has served as a leader in organizations such as the YMCA and the Downtown Raleigh Alliance. He has been honored with awards for his contributions to these organizations and has participated in leadership development programs such as Leadership Charlotte and Leadership Triangle Executive Program.
Fun Fact: Brian’s CliftonStrengths are Ideation, Strategic, Positivity, Relator, and Futuristic, making him an ideal candidate to positively influence change for any leader or organization.
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Values
Character
Earn the trust of each client through excellent work with integrity and genuine belief in my client
Creativity
Foster an environment where fun, creativity, and innovation are valued and embraced, resulting in outstanding ideas and solutions
Curiosity
Curiosity and wonder are essential to bring out the best in a leader and/or organization
Care
Care deeply for the people with whom I work and consider it a privilege to be a partner on their individual and organizational journey
Collaboration
Collaboration is the birthplace of innovation and team success
Significant Career Achievements
Explore the key accomplishments that have shaped Dr. Ralph’s journey.
Strategic Success
- Strategic plan development and execution as a University President, Vice President, and part-time consultant
- Grew enrollment by more than 60% as a VP for Enrollment at two different institutions
- Developed and executed student success initiatives leading to retention rate and graduation rate improvements
Innovative Excellence
- Capital project and land strategy execution including residential, athletic, and commercial real estate (ROI exceeded 25%)
- Established numerous partnerships as a University President including with other colleges, nonprofits and healthcare organizations
- Successful University fundraising resulted in the largest amount raised in over 16 years
Proven Leader
- Led Boards through substantial changes in governance, organization, roles, and alignment
- Highly successful board leadership and chair roles at several nonprofit and professional associations
- Strongly led numerous organizations through significant seasons of challenge and change in order to arrive at a stronger position