The Presidential Precinct proudly announces the appointment of Toyosi Ogunseye as its new President & CEO, succeeding Founding Director Neal Piper in a role she is uniquely poised to take on. Ogunseye’s ascendancy marks an exciting new chapter for the organization, which has been at the forefront of fostering global leadership for over a decade.
Having begun her journey with the Presidential Precinct as a 2014 Mandela Washington Fellow, Ogunseye’s deep understanding of the organization’s mission and values adds an extra layer of significance to her elevation. She states, “I’m honored to have this opportunity to lead such an impactful organization 9 years after I first walked through its doors. I look forward to innovative collaborations with our staff, Board, program alumni, and community partners in Williamsburg and Charlottesville.”
With an illustrious career spanning two decades in journalism, Ogunseye brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Her most recent tenure as Senior News Editor for News and Commissioning at the BBC showcases her prowess in global journalism. Prior to this, Ogunseye achieved a groundbreaking feat as the first female editor in the 50-year history of Punch Newspaper, Nigeria’s foremost newspaper.
Ogunseye’s appointment follows an extensive international search campaign, underscoring the Presidential Precinct’s commitment to identifying a leader whose vision aligns seamlessly with its goals. Jim Murray, Founder and Board Chair, emphasizes, “Toyosi’s experience combined with partnerships and resources that we have established over the past ten years will guarantee a bright future at the Precinct.”
The Presidential Precinct, a pivotal platform for emerging leaders, has engaged and empowered more than 1,300 individuals from over 162 countries, catalyzing transformation across the globe. Situated at the nexus of esteemed institutions, including the University of Virginia, William & Mary, James Madison’s Montpelier, and James Monroe’s Highland, the Precinct continues to be a beacon of diplomatic engagement.