HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Famed American R&B singer-songwriter and producer Brian McKnight has successfully been recruited to be the new president of his former school, Oakwood University. “Anytime Oakwood calls I am willing to help,” said the artist, whose music has earned him 16 Grammy Awards nominations.
“I initially struggled with the idea of having to publicly swear off BBQ ribs to take on the presidency role, but I grew up a 5th-generation Adventist and I realize that Oakwood is worth the sacrifice,” said the singer, adding that he has given much thought to the future of Oakwood since accepting the position as president.
“Although we have always been known for strong academics, I am looking forward to building on Oakwood’s legacy as the launching pad for just about every Adventist celebrity worth mentioning,” said McKnight.
“I got my start in gospel music and my early experiences at Oakwood are part of what later powered my career in showbiz,” said the artist, stressing that he wanted every student at Oakwood to be afforded the opportunities he had enjoyed. “My brother Claude was part of the original (a cappella group) Take 6 and since they also got their start at Oakwood one of my first moves will be to install the current Take 6 singers as my executive team as we chart a brave new course for our great school.”
Although he was expelled from Oakwood for breaking dormitory rules as a student, McKnight has long since gotten over the slight. “Oakwood is the only one for me,” said McKnight. “It feels good to be back at (square) one.”
