Macel Ely

Dr. Macel Ely is serving as executive director of the Naifeh Center for Effective Leadership (NCEL) for the second time. Between these roles, he served as the director of organizational improvement for the Institute for Public Service (IPS). 

Prior to his initial work with NCEL, Ely, served as training manager for the Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS)  During that time, he oversaw multiple training programs including the Municipal Court Clerk Program, Elected Officials Academy, Municipal Management Academy, Municipal Administration Program and the Certified Municipal Finance Officer programs.

Dr. Ely earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Lee University and Kentucky Wesleyan College; a master’s degree in public administration; and a doctoral degree in educational leadership from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. 

He has earned the Certified Professional in Learning and Performance certification through the Association for Talent Development and also has professional certificates in the areas of coaching, leadership program development and training management. Additionally, he was awarded the 2015 Robert S. Hutchison Outstanding Public Service Professional Award. 

Dr. Ely also authored a book entitled Ain’t No Grave, which has been featured in media outlets as CNN Headline News, National Public Radio and the British Broadcasting Corporation. This literary work was nominated for best historical research by the Association of Recorded Sound Collections. Ely also serves on charitable boards across the country.