Koffi C. Akakpo

See more interviews like this in:

Thriving: Black Men in Higher Education

About Koffi C.

• I grew up in Togo, where my father instilled in me the belief that education was non-negotiable—it was the key to changing the world.
• I dreamed of becoming a doctor to help people, but after dropping out of medical school, I had to find a new path to make an impact.
• Starting over, I earned my undergrad and graduate degrees in managerial finance.
• After coming to the U.S., I earned my MBA from Ashland University in Ohio, which led me to corporate roles and later an opportunity in higher education.
• My passion for education was ignited at Central State University, where I realized I could change lives beyond the medical field.
• I worked in the Ohio state government, but when leadership changed, I was forced to pivot, leading me back to my true calling in higher ed.
• I served as president of Bluegrass Community and Technical College before coming full circle to lead Kentucky State University as president.