STAUNTON, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Mary Baldwin University (MBU) Board of Trustees announced today, June 3, 2026, the appointment of Dr. Gary Daynes as MBU’s 12th president with the title of Interim President and Chief Transformation Officer, effective July 1, 2026.

According to MBU officials, Daynes is a historian and educator who has spent his career at small, distinctive institutions. He currently leads Salem Academy and College as its interim president and is the author of How to Be a Small College, published earlier this year.

“Kristine and I are so pleased to be joining Mary Baldwin’s students, staff, faculty, and administration in Staunton,” Daynes said in a release. “We’ve visited town several times over the years, and we are excited to become a full part of the community. I am excited also to join the important work that Mary Baldwin does, and to be part of the work that will ensure Mary Baldwin’s well-being long into the future.”

In his first weeks, Daynes will conduct a listening tour, meeting with faculty, students, staff, alumni, and Staunton residents. 

For more information, visit Mary Baldwin Names Dr. Gary Daynes as 12th President — Mary Baldwin University.