Jimmy McClellan, Ph.D.

Jimmy McClellan serves as Director of the Coalition of Urban Serving Universities (USU). In this role, he oversees grant‑funded initiatives focused on postsecondary student success, including the Partnerships for Adult Learner Success and the Postsecondary Student Success Advancement Project. Jimmy leads and convenes the USU Advisory Council, which brings together organizations beyond higher education to strengthen opportunity, innovation, and the vitality of cities nationwide. He also directs the Urban Adult Learner Institute (UALI), a professional development program designed to help faculty and staff better understand and support undergraduate adult learners (ages 25+) at urban‑serving institutions.

Prior to joining USU in 2022, Jimmy worked in student affairs at the University of South Carolina, New York University, and the University of Maryland. Before entering higher education, he was an elementary school teacher, an experience that continues to inform his commitment to equitable and student‑centered learning environments. Jimmy holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Florida, a master’s degree in teaching from the Relay Graduate School of Education, a master’s degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Virginia Tech, and a doctorate in Education Policy and Leadership from the University of Maryland.

Outside of work, Jimmy enjoys traveling with his partner, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with his two dogs.