News Summary
Savannah State University is set to welcome Dr. Jermaine Whirl as the sole finalist for its presidency, following a board meeting with the University System of Georgia. With nearly 20 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Whirl aims to lead the university while honoring its rich history. His track record includes significant success at Augusta Technical College, and he holds multiple advanced degrees. His appointment is met with optimism from students and alumni alike as the institution prepares for a new chapter.
Savannah Welcomes New Leadership with Dr. Jermaine Whirl
Exciting news is brewing in Savannah, as the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia has officially named Dr. Jermaine Whirl as the sole finalist for the presidency of Savannah State University (SSU). This decision came during a lively board meeting in Atlanta, marking a significant step forward for the institution.
A Journey of Dedication
Dr. Whirl, who currently leads Augusta Technical College (ATC), brings with him nearly 20 years of experience as both a faculty member and an administrative leader in public colleges and universities across Georgia and South Carolina. His extensive background certainly makes him a suitable candidate for this pivotal role at SSU.
A Vision for the Future
While many are celebrating Whirl’s appointment, his leadership style is also drawing attention. The President & CEO of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce is particularly excited about Whirl’s dynamic vision and values, emphasizing the importance of SSU’s rich history while also focusing on its contemporary role in education. Dr. Whirl has shown a commitment to leading with a sense of purpose, aiming to uplift the university and its community.
Success at Augusta Technical College
During his time at ATC, Dr. Whirl spearheaded strategic enrollment efforts that led to record-breaking first-year enrollments. The college even saw an impressive headcount increase of 20.3% from the fall of 2021 to 2024. This success story highlights his ability to implement effective strategies that engage and attract students to educational programs.
Rich Background in Education
Before his stint at ATC, Dr. Whirl held various notable positions, including Vice President of Learning and Workforce Development at Greenville Technical College, and Dean at Gwinnett Technical College. He also made his mark as Dean at Savannah Technical College and worked as a full-time faculty member at Georgia Southern University and East Georgia State College. This wealth of experience positions him well to understand the unique challenges and opportunities that SSU faces.
A Solid Educational Foundation
Dr. Whirl has an impressive educational background as well. He holds an MBA in Business Administration from Charleston Southern University, an M.Ed. in Adult Education from Armstrong State University, and an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership from Valdosta State University. His educational journey reflects his commitment to personal and professional development, which he aims to impart on his future interactions with students and faculty at SSU.
Community Connection
What makes Dr. Whirl’s appointment even more special is his connection to the community. A native of Charleston, South Carolina, he has family members who proudly graduated from Savannah State University. This personal tie adds an extra layer of passion and commitment to his role.
Recognition and Accomplishments
Dr. Whirl’s career is filled with accolades, including being named among Georgia Trend’s “40 Under 40” and receiving multiple awards for his unwavering commitment to higher education. His contributions extend beyond college campuses as he has served on the advisory boards for various organizations, including the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, showcasing his influence in broader economic discussions.
What’s Next for SSU
The appointment process leading to Dr. Whirl’s candidacy was extensive and included a six-month national search conducted by AGB Search, a consulting firm. This thorough selection was necessitated by the leadership transition initiated by Interim President Cynthia Robinson Alexander, who has been at the helm since July 2023, following the departure of former President Kimberly Ballard Washington.
Excitement in the Air
As the Board of Regents prepares to take formal action on Dr. Whirl’s appointment in an upcoming meeting, current students and alumni at SSU are buzzing with optimism. His candidacy has garnered support from those within the university community, reflecting a shared hope for the future.
With a dynamic leader like Dr. Jermaine Whirl poised to take the helm, Savannah State University is set for an exciting chapter ahead, one that promises to honor its past while embracing the opportunities of the future.
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