Current Position and Past Experience
Dwight B. Sanchez is currently the Interim Vice President, Enrollment Management and Strategic Initiatives at Claflin University. In this role, he provides executive leadership for strategic enrollment planning, student recruitment, retention initiatives, and institutional growth strategies that support student success and institutional advancement.
With more than 15 years of experience in enrollment management and higher education leadership, Sanchez has built a reputation as a transformative and collaborative leader who consistently achieves strategic enrollment goals while fostering innovation, inclusivity, and student success. His leadership approach emphasizes team development, data-driven decision-making, cross-departmental collaboration, and the implementation of innovative enrollment strategies and technologies.
Prior to his current appointments, Sanchez served as Executive Director of Enrollment Management at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Director of Recruitment and Admissions at George Washington University, Vice President and Dean of Admissions at Warner Pacific University, Vice President for Enrollment Management at West Virginia State University, and Vice President for Enrollment Management at Virginia Union University. Earlier in his career, he held enrollment management and admissions leadership positions at the University of the District of Columbia, Clark Atlanta University, and Johnson C. Smith University. Across these institutions, he successfully led initiatives focused on enrollment growth, student retention, operational effectiveness, and expanding access to higher education for diverse student populations.
Sanchez is recognized for developing high-performing teams, mentoring future enrollment leaders, and creating collaborative environments that empower staff and strengthen institutional outcomes. His work has contributed to measurable gains in enrollment growth, retention, and student diversity at institutions with a wide range of missions and student populations.
Education, Honors and Achievements
Sanchez earned two Bachelor of Arts degrees from Johnson C. Smith University in English Language and Literature and Spanish Language and Literature. He later earned a Master of Science degree in Management, Strategy and Leadership from Michigan State University.
An accomplished enrollment management executive, Sanchez has dedicated his career to advancing higher education access, strengthening institutional partnerships, and implementing innovative enrollment strategies that drive sustainable growth. He is known for his ability to align institutional priorities with strategic enrollment initiatives while fostering a culture of collaboration, mentorship, and professional development.
Personal Details and Community Involvement
Outside of work, he loves mentoring young professionals and giving back through community initiatives that expand access to education. He's also an avid traveler and lifelong reader—nothing recharges him like exploring a new place or getting lost in a great book. And when football season rolls around, you’ll find him cheering passionately for the Carolina Panthers. Between family time, food adventures and the outdoors, he stays grounded, inspired and connected.
