Former Fortune 500 Executive Dr. Donald W. Comer To Serve As Lane College’s 11th President – AfroTech
Dr. Donald W. Comer will continue serving Lane College as president.
The Jackson, TN, native with three degrees (BBA in accounting; MBA in strategic management; Ph.D. in urban higher education) was appointed interim president of the city’s Lane College in July 2024. Comer had already shown a heart of service for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), reflected in his board service at LeMoyne-Owen College and Stillman College, according to information shared with AFROTECH™.
Dr. Comer brings over 32 years of experience at FedEx, a Fortune 500 company, where his final role was staff vice president, decision science and analysis/operations analysis. According to his LinkedIn profile, the role required him to leverage advanced analytics, AI, and machine learning to solve challenges, identify opportunities for innovation, and integrate solutions to improve operations.
His executive hat, board experience, and two years of service at the HBCU have informed the Lane College Board of Trustees’ decision to appoint Comer as the 11th president.
“I am honored by the Board’s confidence and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Lane College in this capacity,”Comer said in a news release. “Over the past two years, we have built a strong foundation together. The work ahead remains focused, and our commitment to excellence will continue to guide every step forward.”
Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas Sr., chair of the Board of Trustees, commented:
“Over the past two years, Dr. Comer has led with clarity, purpose, and a deep understanding of Lane College’s mission. “The Board has had the opportunity to observe his leadership in real time, and this appointment reflects our full confidence in his ability to lead Lane into its next chapter.”
The appointment of Comer also coincides with the announcement that the university’s liberal arts college received the All-Steinway School designation, according to a press release shared with AFROTECH™. The designation is awarded exclusively to institutions that equip students with high-quality instruments for their pursuit of music education, according to criteria on the piano company’s website.
“Stewardship is not simply about leading people through a moment; it is about building a culture that outlives the moment,” Comer said in a press release. “We are making decisions that honor our history, respond to this moment and position the College for a future defined by excellence, innovation, and enduring impact.”
Dr. Comer will receive an official welcome on Aug. 21, 2026, at 3 p.m. in Graves Auditorium as part of a Presidential Investiture Celebration honoring Lane College’s 144-year legacy in addition to its road ahead under Dr. Comer.
