Former Tri-C President Nolen Ellison Passes Away

Remembered as visionary leader and University of Kansas basketball legend

CLEVELAND — Nolen M. Ellison, Ph.D., the second president of Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) and a basketball legend at the University of Kansas, passed away on June 12 at age 83. 

Ellison was a visionary leader who helped shape Tri-C's identity during its foundational years. His forward-thinking leadership modernized the institution and positioned it as a beacon of access and opportunity.

During his tenure from 1974 to 1991, Ellison championed major advancements that continue to benefit our students today, including the creation of the Unified Technologies Center (now the Manufacturing Technology Center), the integration of computing across the College, the establishment of community partnerships and the founding of Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland, presented by KeyBank.

"It was a pleasure to remain in contact with him prior to my arrival and during my presidency," said Michael A. Baston, J.D., Ed.D., the president of Tri-C. "His love for and belief in Tri-C were without bounds. He was gracious and generous in spirit."

Beyond Tri-C, Ellison's legacy extended nationally. He was one of the youngest college presidents in the country at the time and a trailblazer in education, athletics and community service. A proud Kansas native and University of Kansas basketball legend, he turned down a professional athletic career to pursue a lifelong mission in education and leadership.

Ellison played three seasons for the Jayhawks and was a two-time All-Big Eight Conference selection in 1962 and 1963, when he was the team's leading scorer. He was the program's seventh player to score 1,000 points (1,045 total).

Ellison graduated from the University of Kansas in 1963 with a Bachelor of Science in Education and received a Ph.D. in Education and Leadership Management from Michigan State University in 1971.

Anyone wishing to honor Ellison's memory may do so by contributing to the scholarship fund established in his name at the College. Donations can be made through the Cuyahoga Community College Foundation by designating a gift to the Dr. Nolen M. Ellison Scholarship Fund. 

June 23, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT: Anthony Moujaes, 216-987-3068 or anthony.moujaes@tri-c.edu