Raymond Daniels, a highly accomplished executive and community leader, joined Transylvania University as special assistant to the president for strategic partnerships and community relations, effective May 1.
In this newly created role, Daniels will be responsible for developing and fostering strategic partnerships that enhance Transylvania’s academic mission and community outreach. He will also lead efforts to cultivate engagement with community members and businesses in Lexington and statewide.
“I am honored to join Transylvania University and lead the charge in developing strategic partnerships and fostering deeper community relations,” said Daniels. “Transylvania has a rich history and a vibrant future, and I am excited to contribute to its continued success.”
Daniels brings a wealth of experience in relationship building, collaboration and program development to Transylvania. He has a strong track record of success in stakeholder relationships, diversity planning, strategic planning and customer relationship management. Prior to joining Transylvania, Daniels served as president and CEO of Equity Solutions Group, a strategic sourcing company. He is the former owner and president of LexiDan Foods LLC, a franchise of Waffle House Inc.
“Ray Daniels’ impressive background and collaborative spirit make him the perfect person to lead this important new effort,” said Transylvania President Brien Lewis. “We are confident that Ray will be instrumental in strengthening Transylvania’s connections with the broader community and securing resources that support our students and faculty.”
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Daniels is a highly engaged community leader. His dedication extends to numerous boards, including the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce as an executive board member and current chair of the Inclusion Task Force. Previously, he served as chair of Commerce Lexington Inc. and is completing a term as an appointed member of the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees.
Daniels serves as board chair of Lexington for Everyone, a community group launched to promote equitable and affordable living and working opportunities for all city residents. His commitment to the betterment of Lexington and beyond is further evidenced by his involvement on the boards of Community Ventures Corporation, Urban League of Lexington, the Fayette County School Board and the Kentucky State Tourism Board.
Daniels holds a B.A. in management from Catawba College, where he later served on the institution’s Board of Trustees. In 2019, he was selected as a Prestigious Alumni Award Winner at Catawba.